philodendron

American  

[fil-uh-den-druhn] / ˌfɪl əˈdɛn drən /

noun

1. a tropical American climbing plant belonging to the genus Philodendron, of the arum family, usually having smooth, shiny, evergreen leaves, often used as an ornamental houseplant.

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philodendron British  

/ ˌfɪləˈdɛndrən /

noun

1. any aroid evergreen climbing plant of the tropical American genus Philodendron: cultivated as house plants

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Etymology

Origin of philodendron

1875–80; < New Latin < Greek, noun use of neuter of philódendros fond of trees, in reference to its climbing habit. See philo-, -dendron

Example Sentences

On another occasion, I bought a philodendron that has since taken over my home, “Jumanji”-style.

From New York Times • Jul. 29, 2023

The trailing philodendron can hang from the ceiling or sit on a shelf across from a window.

From Washington Post • Apr. 6, 2022

For instance, Monstera adansonii, also known as the Swiss cheese plant — a vining philodendron with holey leaves — is nice.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 9, 2021

Working with local plant sellers, she was able to get the entire class sponsored, with a hearty plant like a pothos or philodendron for each student.

From Washington Times • Mar. 6, 2021

You could hardly see the screen for the philodendron vines that dangled around the news pictures.

From "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd