Cucurbitaceae

plural noun

Cu·​cur·​bi·​ta·​ce·​ae

(ˌ)kyüˌkərbəˈtāsēˌē

: a family of chiefly herbaceous tendril-bearing vines (order Campanulales) that are characterized by an inferior ovary and anthers usually united and that include food plants (as the cucumber, melon, squash, and pumpkin), drug plants (as the colocynth), and ornamental plants (as the gourds)

cucurbitaceous

(¦)⸗¦⸗⸗¦tāshəs

adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Cucurbita, type genus + -aceae

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