: 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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In shade, hostas, ferns, and even some of the shade grasses can carry you through the warmer months in style. Paul Cappiello, Louisville Courier Journal, 13 Feb. 2026 This fern can help calm incontinence naturally and soothe inflamed bladders. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026 Avoid terra-cotta pots for moisture-loving plants like ferns, Venus flytraps, and peace lilies since the porous clay dries out the soil quickly. Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 11 Feb. 2026 Miniature ferns and moss create a tropical effect around a striped 'Splash' amaryllis. Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Feb. 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 16 Feb. 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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