Definition

1. Noun:
   • A botanical family of flowering plants: "family Cornaceae" is the scientific name for a specific family of dicotyledonous plants within the order Cornales (historically Umbellales). It is characterized by its members, which are typically trees or shrubs.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The dogwood tree is a well-known member of the family Cornaceae.
  • Botanists study the evolutionary relationships within family Cornaceae.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification: The name is used in a strict scientific context to group related genera. It is often italicized in writing.
  • The classification of the genus Helwingia within the family Cornaceae has been confirmed.

Variants and Related Words

• Cornaceae: The simplified, more common form of the family name, often used without the word "family."
  • Plants in Cornaceae often have opposite leaves.
• Cornaceous (adj): Relating to or characteristic of the family Cornaceae.
  • The cornaceous shrubs were identified by their distinctive flowers.

Synonyms

• Dogwood family: A common name for this plant family, derived from its most familiar genus, (dogwoods).

Notes on Meaning

• Taxonomic Context: "Family Cornaceae" refers specifically to a formal rank in biological classification (family). Its composition has been revised over time, with some genera formerly included now placed in other families. The core group typically includes genera like , , , , , and .

Noun

1. a rosid dicot family of the order Umbellales including: genera Aucuba, Cornus, Corokia, Curtisia, Griselinia, Helwingia