xanthorrhoea

noun

xan·​thor·​rhoea

ˌzan(t)thəˈrēə

1

capitalized : a genus of Australian plants (family Liliaceae) having a thick woody trunk or caudex that bears a cluster of stiff linear leaves and a dense terminal spike of small flowers see grass tree

2

plural -s : any plant of the genus Xanthorrhoea

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from xanth- + -rrhea; from the yellow gum it exudes

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