rhizome

[ rahy-zohm ]

noun

, Botany.

1. a rootlike subterranean stem, commonly horizontal in position, that usually produces roots below and sends up shoots progressively from the upper surface.

rhizome

/ ˈraɪzəʊm; -ˈzəʊ-; raɪˈzɒmətəs /

noun

1. a thick horizontal underground stem of plants such as the mint and iris whose buds develop new roots and shoots Also calledrootstockrootstalk

rhizome

/ rī′zōm′ /

1. A plant stem that grows horizontally under or along the ground and often sends out roots and shoots. New plants develop from the shoots. Ginger, iris, and violets have rhizomes.
2. Also called rootstock
3. Compare bulb

Derived Forms

• rhizomatous, adjective

Other Words From

• rhi·zom·a·tous [rahy-, zom, -, uh, -t, uh, s, -, zoh, -m, uh, -], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhizome¹

1835–45; < New Latin rhizoma < Greek rhízōma root, stem, noun of result from rhizoûn to fix firmly, take root, derivative of rhíza root ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhizome¹

C19: from New Latin rhizoma , from Greek, from rhiza a root

Example Sentences

Walking on the moss helps it adhere to the soil, since they have small rhizomes instead of roots.

From Popular-Science

Organizations such as Rhizome have been archiving such work even longer and have over 2,000 pieces online.

From The Daily Beast

Sometimes dumb-bells, compact sheaves of fine needles, and irregular rhizome forms are seen (Fig. 40).

From Project Gutenberg

The root of golden seal is used in medicine under the name hydrastis rhizome, as a stomachic and nervine stimulant.

From Project Gutenberg

This plant has a very thick rhizome from which arise the erect stems.

From Project Gutenberg

From a slender, creeping rhizome, which is black in colour, the fronds arise.

From Project Gutenberg

This plant has a thin creeping rhizome from which the fronds arise.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• essence
• foundation
• heart
• origin
• seed
• soul
• source
• stem
• stuff