rhizome

noun

rhi·​zome ˈrī-ˌzōm 

: a somewhat elongated usually horizontal subterranean plant stem that is often thickened by deposits of reserve food material, produces shoots above and roots below, and is distinguished from a true root in possessing buds, nodes, and usually scalelike leaves

rhizomic

rī-ˈzō-mik 

-ˈzä-

adjective

Examples of rhizome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sympodial orchids grow from a rhizome or bulb and have multiple root systems. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Oct. 2024

The flower itself has little smell, so the unmistakably earthy and powdery perfume is extracted from its rhizomes. —Robert Johnston, theweek, 11 Oct. 2024

After the first few fall frosts, cut all foliage back as close to the rhizome as possible. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2024

Squirrels find the rhizome roots distasteful and are deterred by the highly perfumed scent of the blooms. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 14 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin rhizomat-, rhizoma, from Greek rhizōmat-, rhizōma mass of roots, from rhizoun to cause to take root, from rhiza root — more at root

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

rhizome

noun

rhi·​zome ˈrī-ˌzōm 

: a rootlike, often thickened, and usually horizontal underground plant stem that produces shoots above and roots below

Medical Definition

rhizome

noun

rhi·​zome ˈrī-ˌzōm 

: a usually horizontal subterranean plant stem that is distinguished from a true root in possessing buds, nodes, and usually scalelike leaves