sensitive fern


noun
  1. a common, widely distributed fern, Onoclea sensibilis, having large, triangular leaves and beadlike spikes that contain the spores.

Origin of sensitive fern

1
An Americanism dating back to 1805–15; so called from the sensitivity of its foliage to frost

Words Nearby sensitive fern

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use sensitive fern in a sentence

  • The sensitive fern is so called from its being very sensitive to frost.

    The Fern Lover's Companion | George Henry Tilton
  • Not to mention, among inferior orders, wool-grass and the sensitive fern.

    The Maine Woods | Henry David Thoreau
  • In the midst of the marsh were rows of the fruit-stems of the sensitive fern, which is the first to blacken before the frost.

    Everyday Adventures | Samuel Scoville
  • Onoclea sensibilis (sensitive fern), very common along the riversides; some on the gravelly shore of Heron Lake Island.

    The Maine Woods | Henry David Thoreau
  • As in the sensitive fern there are many curious gradations between the fertile and sterile fronds, both in shape and fruitfulness.

    The Fern Lover's Companion | George Henry Tilton