proliferous

adjective

pro·​lif·​er·​ous
-f(ə)rəs
1
obsolete : prolific sense 2a
2
a
: reproducing freely by offsets, bulbils, gemmae, or other vegetative means
3
: proliferating
specifically : producing a cluster of branchlets from a larger branch
used of coral
proliferously adverb

Word History

Etymology

proli- + -ferous

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

Dictionary Entries Near proliferous

Cite this Entry

“Proliferous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proliferous. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!