spleenwort

/ˈspiːnˌwɜrt/

Definitions

1. noun

A type of fern, especially in the genera Asplenium or Diplolepium.

“The spleenwort fern thrives in the shaded areas of the forest.”

2. noun

A term used in medieval medicine to refer to an imaginary organ associated with the spleen.

“In medieval times, physicians believed that the spleenwort played a crucial role in blood purification.”

Synonyms

  • fern
  • polypody

Antonyms

  • flowering plant