Definition

Noun: 1. A plant of the family Gesneriaceae: Any of a large number of tropical or subtropical plants belonging to the botanical family Gesneriaceae. These are typically small shrubs, treelets, or epiphytic vines, and are often cultivated as ornamental houseplants for their attractive, frequently showy flowers.

Examples of Usage

• The gesneriad collection at the botanical garden features many rare species.
• African violets and gloxinias are two of the most popular gesneriads grown indoors.
• As an epiphyte, this particular gesneriad grows on tree branches in its natural habitat.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used collectively to refer to all members of the family Gesneriaceae.
• In horticultural circles, "gesneriad" is a common term for enthusiasts and collectors who specialize in these plants.

Variants and Related Words

• Gesneriaceae (noun): The botanical family name to which all gesneriads belong.
• Gesneria (noun): The type genus of the Gesneriaceae family, from which the common name "gesneriad" is derived.

Synonyms

• There is no direct single-word synonym. The word is a specific botanical term. Descriptive phrases include:
  • Member of the Gesneriaceae family
  • Flowering plant of the gesneriad family

Related Idioms or Phrases

• Gesneriad society: A club or organization for people who grow and study these plants.
  • She learned expert care tips from her local gesneriad society.

Noun

1. any of numerous tropical or subtropical small shrubs or treelets or epiphytic vines of the family Gesneriaceae: African violet; Cape primroses; gloxinia