yucca

[yuhk-uh]

noun

1. any plant belonging to the genus Yucca, of the agave family, native to the warmer regions of America, having pointed, usually rigid, sword-shaped leaves and clusters of white, waxy flowers: the state flower of New Mexico.

yucca

/ ˈjʌkə /

noun

1. any of several plants of the genus Yucca, of tropical and subtropical America, having stiff lancelike leaves and spikes of white flowers: family Agaraceae See also Adam's-needle Spanish bayonet

Word History and Origins

Origin of yucca¹

1655–65; < New Latin, apparently < Spanish; perhaps originally identical with yuca yuca

Word History and Origins

Origin of yucca¹

C16: from American Spanish yuca, ultimately from an American Indian word

Example Sentences

You’ll pass through patches of manzanita and yucca and then forested parts with Coulter pines, all the while with a view of the valley below.

From Los Angeles Times

"I want to plant yucca, tomatoes, bananas, mangoes and pineapples," she enthuses.

From BBC

But those protections also extend to the wider ecosystem — such as the yucca moth.

From Los Angeles Times

Vibrant yucca, scrub oak and sage stood alongside dried-out chaparral.

From Los Angeles Times

Yusely nodded at the yucca chips frying slowly in a pot of lukewarm oil.

From BBC