Definition

A type of plant that belongs to a family known for tropical herbs and shrubs, including popular varieties like African violets and gloxinia.

Example

She has a beautiful gesneriad blooming in her living room.

Conversation

Have you seen my new plant?

No, what kind is it?

It's a beautiful gesneriad with bright purple flowers.

That sounds lovely! I've always wanted to try growing one.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'gesneriad' originates from the name 'Gesner', referring to the Swiss botanist Conrad Gesner, who was known for his work in natural history and botany. The suffix '-iad' is derived from the Greek '-iadis', which is used to denote a group or family. Therefore, 'gesneriad' refers to a family of flowering plants named in honor of Gesner.

Memory Tip

Think of the botanist Gesner, whose name is honored in the term 'gesneriad', representing a family of plants. This helps you remember that 'gesneriad' refers to a specific group of flowering plants.

Visually Confused Words