Sparassis

noun

Spa·​ras·​sis

spəˈrasə̇s

: a genus of fungi (family Clavariaceae) having fleshy, much-branched, leafy sporophores see yellow root rot

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek sparassein to tear, rend; akin to Old Norse spjörr rag, Armenian pʽertʽ piece ripped off of something, and perhaps to Old Slavic prǫžiti, prǫžati to tear apart

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