fern

noun

ˈfərn 

: any of a division (Polypodiophyta) or class (Polypodiopsida) of flowerless spore-producing vascular plants having alternating sporophyte and gametophyte generations

especially : any of an order (Polypodiales) of homosporous plants possessing roots, stems, and leaflike fronds compare seed fern

fernlike

ˈfərn-ˌlīk 

adjective

ferny

ˈfər-nē 

adjective

Examples of fern in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Looking for some inspiration on drying ferns and flowers? —Krista Simmons, Sunset Magazine, 18 Sep. 2024

Here, the sugar maples, red maples, gum trees, and hickory trees show off their autumn colors; they’re also complemented by ferns, Japanese maples, and woody shrubs in the gardens, creating one of Asheville’s most spectacular sights. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 7 Sep. 2024

The two creeks flow through rocky canyons shaded by pines and Douglas firs, where ferns grow along the banks. —Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2024

The space also features ferns and a hammock tied to a citrus tree. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 7 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English fearn; akin to Old High German farn fern, Sanskrit parṇa wing, leaf

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing fern

• bird's-nest fern
• Boston fern
• Christmas fern
• cinnamon fern
• fern bar
• fern seed
• hay-scented fern
• maidenhair fern
• male fern
• ostrich fern
• seed fern
• southern maidenhair fern
• sweet fern
• sword fern
• tree fern
• Venus' hair fern

Kids Definition

fern

noun

ˈfərn 

: any of an order of vascular plants resembling seed plants in having root, stem, and leaflike fronds but reproducing by spores instead of by flowers and seeds

fernlike

-ˌlīk 

adjective

ferny

ˈfər-nē 

adjective