stipa

noun

sti·​pa
ˈstīpə
1
capitalized : a large widely distributed genus of grasses having a one-flowered spikelet and lemma terminating in a long twisted or bent awn see bunchgrass, feather grass, ichu, needlegrass, porcupine grass, sleepy grass
2
or less commonly stipa grass plural -s : any grass of the genus Stipa
specifically : esparto

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin stupa, stuppa coarse part of flax, tow

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 stipa

Cite this Entry

“Stipa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stipa. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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