male fern

noun

1. a bright-green fern, Dryopteris filix-mas, of Europe and northeastern North America.

male fern

noun

1. a fern, Dryopteris filix-mas, having scaly stalks and pinnate fronds with kidney-shaped spore-producing bodies on the underside: family Polypodiaceae

Word History and Origins

Origin of male fern¹

First recorded in 1555–65

Word History and Origins

Origin of male fern¹

C16: so called because it was formerly believed to be the male of the lady fern

Example Sentences

From the tincture of the dried root of male fern (Lastra Filix-mas), made with rectified spirit.

From Project Gutenberg

In certain respects this species bears a resemblance to the Male Fern.

From Project Gutenberg

It is now recognized that the Male Fern may be divided into three sub-species.

From Project Gutenberg

In the Male Fern any tapering at the base is of a very slight description.

From Project Gutenberg

Two hours after breakfast next morning give one-half dram of the oleoresin of male-fern in emulsion or capsule.

From Project Gutenberg