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spathe

noun
\ ˈspāt͟h How to pronounce spathe (audio) \

Definition of spathe

: a sheathing bract or pair of bracts partly enclosing an inflorescence and especially a spadix on the same axis the spathe of the calla lily

Examples of spathe in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 The spathe on the corpse flower is striped green and white on the outside and a meaty red within. — Ciscoe Morris, The Seattle Times, "There’s a reason they call it a corpse flower," 31 May 2017

First Known Use of spathe

1785, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for spathe

New Latin spatha, from Latin, broadsword — more at spade

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