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.
Split leaf philodendron doesn’t climb like a monstera, and is faster growing, too. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Jan. 2025 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 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 26 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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