Definition

A part of a plant that serves as the main axis of a flower cluster or the central stem of a feather.

Example

The rhachis of the feather supports the barbs that create its structure.

Conversation

I was reading about plants and came across the term rhachis.

Oh, I've heard that word before! What does it mean?

It refers to the main axis of a plant where leaves or flowers are attached, like in ferns.

That’s interesting! I never knew the rhachis had such an important role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rhachis comes from the Greek word "rhachis" (ῥάχις), meaning spine or backbone. It refers to the central axis of a structure, particularly in botany, where it denotes the main stem of a plant or the central part of a feather.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for spine, 'rhachis', to remember that it refers to the central part or backbone of something.

Visually Confused Words