often attributive
1
: any of a genus (Linum of the family Linaceae, the flax family) of herbs
especially : a slender erect annual (L. usitatissimum) with blue flowers commonly cultivated for its bast fiber and seed
2
: the fiber of the flax plant especially when prepared for spinning
3
: any of several plants resembling flax
flaxy adjective

Examples of flax in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Behind the seating area and against the wall is a line of New Zealand flax plants. Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026 The flax and canvas colorways in this linen are perfectly suited to an understated bedroom—see these modern bedrooms for more ideas. Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 3 Apr. 2026 Made from 100 percent European flax, the naturally heat-regulating linen is a must-have for your spring and summer outfit rotation. Ali Faccenda, InStyle, 1 Apr. 2026 Blending in Greek yogurt, chia seeds, flax seeds, nut butter or cottage cheese adds meaningful protein and nutrients without the heavy metal concerns or the premium price tag. Allison Palmer, Kansas City Star, 31 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flax

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English fleax; akin to Old High German flahs flax, Latin plectere to braid — more at ply

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

flax

noun
: a slender plant with blue flowers that is grown for its fiber from which linen is made and for its seed from which oil and livestock feed are obtained
also : its fiber

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