stem
noun (1)
\ ˈstem
\
\
Definition of stem
(Entry 1 of 6)
1a
: the main trunk of a plant
specifically
: a primary plant axis that develops buds and shoots instead of roots
b
: a plant part (such as a branch, petiole, or stipe) that supports another (such as a leaf or fruit)
c
: the complete fruiting stalk of a banana plant with its bananas
2a
: the main upright member at the bow of a ship
b
: the bow or prow of a ship — compare stern
4
: the part of an inflected word that remains after the inflected part is removed
strength is the stem of strengths
also
: root sense 6
5
: something held to resemble a plant stem: such as
a
: a main or heavy stroke of a letter
b
: the short perpendicular line extending from the head of a musical note
c
: the part of a tobacco pipe from the bowl outward
d
: the cylindrical support of a piece of stemware (such as a goblet)
e
: a shaft of a watch used for winding
from stem to stern
stem
verb (1)
stemmed;
stemming
Definition of stem (Entry 2 of 6)
1
: to make headway against (something, such as an adverse tide, current, or wind)
2
: to check or go counter to (something adverse)
stem
verb (2)
stemmed;
stemming
Definition of stem (Entry 3 of 6)
1
: to remove the stem from
2
: to make a stem for (something, such as an artificial flower)
: to occur or develop as a consequence : have or trace an origin
her success stems from hard work
stem
verb (3)
stemmed;
stemming
Definition of stem (Entry 4 of 6)
1a
: to stop or dam up (something, such as a river)
2
: to turn (a ski) in stemming
1
: to restrain or check oneself
also
: to become checked or stanched
2
: to slide the heel of one ski or of both skis outward usually in making or preparing to make a turn