rhizome

noun

rhi·​zome ˈrī-ˌzōm How to pronounce rhizome (audio)
: a somewhat elongated usually horizontal subterranean plant stem that is often thickened by deposits of reserve food material, produces shoots above and roots below, and is distinguished from a true root in possessing buds, nodes, and usually scalelike leaves
rhizomic
rī-ˈzō-mik How to pronounce rhizome (audio)
-ˈzä-
adjective

Examples of rhizome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Sympodial orchids grow from a rhizome or bulb and have multiple root systems. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Oct. 2024 The flower itself has little smell, so the unmistakably earthy and powdery perfume is extracted from its rhizomes. Robert Johnston, theweek, 11 Oct. 2024 After the first few fall frosts, cut all foliage back as close to the rhizome as possible. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2024 Squirrels find the rhizome roots distasteful and are deterred by the highly perfumed scent of the blooms. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 14 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rhizome 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rhizome.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin rhizomat-, rhizoma, from Greek rhizōmat-, rhizōma mass of roots, from rhizoun to cause to take root, from rhiza root — more at root

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rhizome was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near rhizome

Cite this Entry

“Rhizome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rhizome. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

rhizome

noun
rhi·​zome ˈrī-ˌzōm How to pronounce rhizome (audio)
: a rootlike, often thickened, and usually horizontal underground plant stem that produces shoots above and roots below

Medical Definition

rhizome

noun
rhi·​zome ˈrī-ˌzōm How to pronounce rhizome (audio)
: a usually horizontal subterranean plant stem that is distinguished from a true root in possessing buds, nodes, and usually scalelike leaves

More from Merriam-Webster on rhizome

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