terrarium

noun

ter·​rar·​i·​um tə-ˈrer-ē-əm 

plural terraria tə-ˈrer-ē-ə  or terrariums

: a usually transparent enclosure for keeping or raising plants or usually small animals (such as turtles) indoors

Did you know?

A Terrarium at the Zoo

The turtle exhibit at a zoo is often in the form of a terrarium, as are some of the exhibits at a plant conservatory. In an ant terrarium, elementary-school students watch the ants dig their network of tunnels as if no one were watching. Terrariums try to create conditions as close as possible to a natural habitat. A covered terrarium can often sustain itself for months on the moisture trapped inside. But creating a good terrarium requires careful control not only of humidity but also of temperature, as well as good ventilation; the lighting should include the full spectrum of sunlight as well as a day-night regulator.

Examples of terrarium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

From teacups to terrariums, learn how to creatively display your own arrangement. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 6 Nov. 2024

Walk-ins are welcome at the downtown Zionsville location, according to the store's website, while parties of six or more are encouraged to call ahead to book the DIY terrarium bar. —Alysa Guffey, The Indianapolis Star, 8 Nov. 2024

Xbox has spent years architecting a digital terrarium for its new machines. —Cecilia D'anastasio, WIRED, 5 Oct. 2020

Fortunately, there are tons of original options out there for your friends and family, like a terrarium made of Legos to a podcast-like audio recording of a loved one. —Malia Griggs, SELF, 16 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin terra + -arium (as in vivarium)

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

terrarium

noun

ter·​rar·​i·​um tə-ˈrar-ē-əm 

-ˈrer-

plural terraria

-ē-ə

or terrariums

: a transparent enclosure used for keeping and observing small animals and plants indoors