elephant ear

American  

[el-uh-fuhnt eer] / ˈɛl ə fənt ˌɪər /

noun

1. Also elephant's-ear any of various plants with very large, sturdy leaves shaped somewhat like an elephant’s ear in shape, especially a plant of the arum family (Aracea), including caladium, malanga, and taro.

2. Cooking.

   1. a large, flat, sugared pastry made from fried dough, somewhat resembling an elephant's ear.

   2. palmier.

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Etymology

Origin of elephant ear

First recorded in 1865–70 elephant ear for def. 1

Example Sentences

This beautiful elephant ear wowed the judges with its sturdy burgundy stems and large glossy leaves featuring pink veins and creamy white centers.

From Seattle Times

One more thing that makes it great to be here: eating an elephant ear.

From Seattle Times

This not only dwarfs the amount of neurons controlling Asian elephant ears, it is nearly 3,000 more neurons than are needed to operate the entire human face.

From New York Times

The company offers a variety of plants, including palms, cordyline and elephant ears, that were grown in full sun and are ready to live outside during warm-weather months.

From Washington Post

A similar overwintering approach will work for angel’s trumpet; banana; and other tender perennials, like elephant ears.

From Seattle Times