: any of a division (Polypodiophyta) or class (Polypodiopsida) of flowerless spore-producing vascular plants having alternating sporophyte and gametophyte generations
especially : any of an order (Polypodiales) of homosporous plants possessing roots, stems, and leaflike fronds compare seed fern
fernlike adjective
ferny adjective

Examples of fern in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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And while hydrangeas only bloom in summer, ferns will add interest and color when hydrangeas aren’t full of flowers. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Apr. 2026 More than 32,000 plants will be for sale, including trees, shrubs, vines, ferns, hostas, native plants, perennials and ornamental grasses. Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 2026 Admire the roses, rhododendrons, and ferns, and visit the greenhouse in peace and quiet. Lindsey Tramuta, Robb Report, 2 Apr. 2026 Chefs and home cooks alike have embraced the art of pickling, experimenting with unconventional ingredients like fiddlehead ferns and green strawberries. Literary Hub, 31 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fern

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English fearn; akin to Old High German farn fern, Sanskrit parṇa wing, leaf

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fern was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fern. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

fern

noun
: any of an order of vascular plants resembling seed plants in having root, stem, and leaflike fronds but reproducing by spores instead of by flowers and seeds
fernlike adjective
ferny adjective

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