Definition

1. Noun:
   • A widely distributed edible fungus shaped like a human ear and growing on decaying wood: "Ear fungus" refers to a type of edible mushroom known for its distinctive, ear-like shape and its common habitat on rotting wood.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We collected some ear fungus from the fallen oak log for the soup.
  • The ear fungus, also known as wood ear, is a common ingredient in Asian cuisine.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific context: In mycology, "ear fungus" often specifically refers to species within the genus .
  • The biologist identified the specimen as Auricularia auricula-judae, a classic ear fungus.

Variants and Related Words

• Wood ear (n): A common name for the same or similar fungi.
  • The recipe calls for dried wood ear.
• Jelly ear (n): Another name highlighting the fungus's gelatinous texture.
  • Jelly ear fungus is often found on elder trees.

Synonyms

• Tree ear: Another common name for this type of fungus.
• Judas's ear: A historical name derived from a specific species.

Related Phrases

• "Ear fungus mushroom": A clarifying phrase sometimes used to specify it is a fungus for culinary or foraging purposes.
  • Is this ear fungus mushroom safe to eat?

Noun

1. widely distributed edible fungus shaped like a human ear and growing on decaying wood