mangrove

noun

man·​grove ˈman-ˌgrōv How to pronounce mangrove (audio)
ˈmaŋ-
1
: any of a genus (Rhizophora, especially R. mangle of the family Rhizophoraceae) of tropical maritime trees or shrubs that send out many prop roots and form dense masses important in coastal land building and as foundations of unique ecosystems
2
: any of numerous trees (as of the genera Avicennia of the acanthus family or Sonneratia of the family Lythraceae) with growth habits like those of the true mangroves

Examples of mangrove in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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In the mangroves with Florida’s poet of excess and grift By Amy Weiss-Meyer Listen1.0x 0:0025:31 Listen to more stories on hark Nothing about Carl Hiaasen’s outward appearance suggests eccentricity. Amy Weiss-Meyer, The Atlantic, 8 May 2025 In exchange for helping to remove debris from the all-important mangroves (and keeping the Keys’ waterways a beautiful treasure), guests are treated to a scenic boat ride. Angela Caraway-Carlton, Miami Herald, 8 May 2025 Already, the mangroves are showing signs of recovery. Gwendolina Duval, Vogue, 22 Apr. 2025 Hotel is a luxury resort located along the serene mangroves, offering a peaceful escape while still being close to the action of the downtown. Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mangrove

Word History

Etymology

probably from Portuguese mangue mangrove (from Spanish mangle, probably from Taino) + English grove

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mangrove was in 1613

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Cite this Entry

“Mangrove.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mangrove. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

mangrove

noun
man·​grove ˈman-ˌgrōv How to pronounce mangrove (audio)
ˈmaŋ-
: any of various tropical trees or shrubs that grow many prop roots and form dense masses in somewhat salty marshes or shallow salt water

More from Merriam-Webster on mangrove

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