ostrich fern

noun

: any of a genus (Matteuccia) of temperate-zone ferns
especially : a tall fern (M. struthiopteris) with graceful arched fronds which are the source of edible fiddleheads

Examples of ostrich fern in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Heavy shade areas can support ostrich ferns and ramps, both of which can also be foraged for the dinner table. Karl Schneider, The Indianapolis Star, 29 Apr. 2024 Here in the United Kingdom, some of the ferns suited to a very damp and boggy location include royal ferns, ostrich ferns, lady ferns, and sensitive ferns, to give a few examples. Elizabeth Waddington, Treehugger, 17 Feb. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ostrich fern was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near ostrich fern

Cite this Entry

“Ostrich fern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ostrich%20fern. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

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