Polytrichaceae

plural noun

Po·​lyt·​ri·​cha·​ce·​ae

pəˌli‧trəˈkāsēˌē

: a family of usually large acrocarpous mosses (order Polytrichales) that have simple or branching erect shoots growing from an underground stem, leaves with the costae bearing longitudinal lamellae of variable structure, antheridia borne in conspicious saucer-shaped terminal rosettes, and capsules which are characteristically angular in cross section with a peristome several cells thick see pogonatum , polytrichum

polytrichaceous

⸗¦⸗⸗¦kāshəs

adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Polytrichum, type genus + -aceae

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