Rafflesiaceae

plural noun

Raf·​fle·​si·​a·​ce·​ae
rəˌflēz(h)ēˈāsēˌē,
raˌ-
: a family of endotrophic parasitic plants (order Aristolochiales) found chiefly in warm regions of the Old World and sometimes in Mexico that lack stems, have imbricated scales in place of leaves, and have apetalous flowers emerging from the host and having five to ten calyx lobes
rafflesiaceous
⸗¦⸗⸗¦āshəs
adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Rafflesia, type genus + -aceae

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Cite this Entry

“Rafflesiaceae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Rafflesiaceae. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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