Definition

A type of parasitic plant found in tropical Asia, known for its large, often foul-smelling flowers and lack of leaves and stems.

Example

The rafflesia is famous for having the largest flower in the world, which can grow up to one meter in diameter.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the rafflesia?

Yeah, it's that huge flower that smells really bad, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how it grows on other plants.

I read that it has the largest flowers of any plant, which is amazing!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rafflesia → The word 'rafflesia' is derived from the name of the botanist Sir Stamford Raffles, who is credited with its discovery in the early 19th century. The suffix '-ia' is commonly used in scientific nomenclature to denote a genus or group. Thus, 'rafflesia' refers to a genus of flowering plants named after Raffles.

Memory Tip

Think of Sir Stamford Raffles, the botanist who discovered this unique flower, and remember that 'rafflesia' is named in his honor.

Visually Confused Words