liana

[ lee-ah-nuh, -an-uh ]

noun

1. any of various usually woody vines that may climb as high as the tree canopy in a tropical forest.

liana

/ lɪˈɑːnə; lɪˈɑːn /

noun

1. any of various woody climbing plants mainly of tropical forests

Derived Forms

• liˈanoid, adjective

Other Words From

• li·anoid adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of liana¹

1790–1800; earlier liannes (plural), apparently misspelling of French lianes, plural of liane, derivative of lier to bind; spelling with -a is Latinized or pseudo-Spanish

Word History and Origins

Origin of liana¹

C19: changed from earlier liane (through influence of French lier to bind), from French, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

“There will be more jobs for us guides,” said Díaz, from the shade of a tree full of lianas.

From Seattle Times

They range from the role of lianas and vines—which can both hamper reforestation by hindering light and help it by offering protection from storms—to how to measure success and manage the projects.

From Science Magazine

Walking among the giant trees with their snakelike lianas, or vines, hanging down, Roosevelt noted the stillness and silence in the forest.

From Literature

One has features typical of lianas, which are woody vines.

From Salon

“These lianas also have tendrils that let them grab pieces of stems and leaves and start growing.”

From New York Times