marcescent

1 of 2

adjective

mar·​ces·​cent

-nt

of a plant part

: withering without falling off

marcescent leaves

marcescent

2 of 2

noun

"

plural -s

: a plant that has marcescent parts

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin marcescent-, marcescens, present participle of marcescere to wither, inchoative from marcēre to wither; akin to Middle High German mern to dip bread in wine or water, Middle Irish mraich, braich malt, and probably to Greek marainein to waste away

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now