noun
liverwort
LIV-er-wurt/lˈɪvɝwɝt/
A small nonflowering plant related to mosses.
A small liverwort grows beside the moss on this rock.
Etymology
Literally a “liver plant,” this name was applied to plants with liver-shaped leaves or uses in treating liver disorders. It reflects resemblance or medicinal use rather than the damp habitat of the plant now meant.
In context
have I got a liverwort
More examples
- This liverwort spreads across the damp soil in the pot.
- Unlike flowering plants, liverworts produce spores rather than seeds.
- Some liverworts have tiny leaves, while others form flat green ribbons.
Forms
liverwort · liverworts