sword fern

noun

1. any fern of the genus Nephrolepis, especially N. exaltata, characterized by sword-shaped, pinnate fronds, a common houseplant.

sword fern

noun

1. any of numerous ferns having sword-shaped fronds

Word History and Origins

Origin of sword fern¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

If you don’t want to run any risks, a safer option for big green fronds is the Boston fern, also known as the sword fern.

From Popular-Science

The sword fern grows in dense, radiate clusters, all through the mossy woods.

From Project Gutenberg

Frances was washing the sword fern while she recited her history lesson to her mother, who was sewing.

From Project Gutenberg