philodendron

noun

phil·​o·​den·​dron ˌfi-lə-ˈden-drən How to pronounce philodendron (audio)
plural philodendrons also philodendra ˌfi-lə-ˈden-drə How to pronounce philodendron (audio)
: any of various aroid plants (as of the genus Philodendron) that are cultivated for their showy foliage

Illustration of philodendron

Illustration of philodendron

Examples of philodendron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fast-growing varieties, like ‘Heart-leaf’ and ‘Velvet-leaf’ philodendrons, are top picks for winter propagation. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Jan. 2025 Tropical plants, such as philodendron or pothos, grow quickly, and will require more room for their roots to grow, as well as frequent watering. Maya Chawla, Architectural Digest, 2 Jan. 2025 Test soil acidity in azalea, philodendron and ixora plantings and adjust if needed. Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 28 Dec. 2024 Depending on the type, philodendron hits a mature size of between 3-12 feet long. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for philodendron 

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek, neuter of philodendros loving trees, from phil- + dendron tree — more at dendr-

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of philodendron was in 1877

Dictionary Entries Near philodendron

Cite this Entry

“Philodendron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/philodendron. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

philodendron

noun
philo·​den·​dron
ˌfil-ə-ˈden-drən
plural philodendrons also philodendra
-drə
: any of several plants of the arum family that are often grown for their showy usually shiny leaves

More from Merriam-Webster on philodendron

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