midrib

[ mid-rib ]

noun

, Botany.

1. the central or middle rib of a leaf.

midrib

/ ˈmɪdˌrɪb /

noun

1. the main vein of a leaf, running down the centre of the blade

midrib

/ mĭd′rĭb′ /

1. The central or main vein of a leaf, as in eudicots, magnoliids, and ferns. Midribs generally protrude from the underside of leaves with pinnate venation.
2. See more at venation

Word History and Origins

Origin of midrib¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; mid- + rib ¹

Example Sentences

Above him was a bright green tube that looked like a midrib of a large leaf.

From Literature

Eggs that are laid in the midrib on the underside of leaves first hatch in mid-May, but those infestations are followed by later generations in June, July and August.

From Seattle Times

Two colorful varieties are ‘Red Giant’, with thick purplish-red leaves, and ‘Dragon Tongue’, with crinkled green leaves, purple veins and ivory-white midribs.

From Seattle Times

By this stage the larvae become eating machines, devouring entire leaves, leaving only the midrib in their wake.

From Seattle Times

She buys the leaves from Asia Market in Manhattan’s Chinatown, about a dozen a pack with the midribs cut out, folded like tablecloths.

From New York Times