sphagnum

[ sfag-nuhm ]

noun

1. any soft moss of the genus Sphagnum, occurring chiefly in bogs, used for potting and packing plants, for dressing wounds, etc.

sphagnum

/ ˈsfæɡnəm /

noun

1. any moss of the genus Sphagnum, of temperate bogs, having leaves capable of holding much water: layers of these mosses decay to form peat Also calledpeat mossbog moss

sphagnum

/ sfăg′nəm /

1. See peat moss

Derived Forms

• ˈsphagnous, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sphagnum¹

1745–55; < New Latin, alteration of Greek sphágnos a moss

Word History and Origins

Origin of sphagnum¹

C18: from New Latin, from Greek sphagnos a variety of moss

Example Sentences

Peat is an accumulation of sphagnum moss and other organic matter that grows in wet areas.

From Popular-Science

When it can be had, florists or sphagnum moss is an excellent medium in which to pack roots for winter.

From Project Gutenberg

I bade Joe lay more dry wood on the fire and kick it well, for the sphagnum moss still dulled it.

From Project Gutenberg

De Golyer was back in a moment, both hands full of dripping sphagnum; and Nick washed away the mess of blood.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Arnold, therefore, was provided with some sacks of Sphagnum moss in which to stow his finds.

From Project Gutenberg

With German thoroughness, they made further experiments, and so "discovered" sphagnum moss from the surgeon's point of view.

From Project Gutenberg