Definition

Noun: 1. A specific palm tree species: "ivory palm" refers to a particular type of palm tree (Phytelephas macrocarpa) native to regions of South America, such as Brazil and Peru. It is characterized by being stemless or having a very short trunk and is notable for producing large seeds known as ivory nuts.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The ivory palm grows in the Amazon basin.
  • Botanists study the ivory palm for its unique seed structure.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical or commercial contexts: The term is used specifically to identify this species, often in discussions about its seeds, which are a source of vegetable ivory.
  • The trade in vegetable ivory depends on the sustainable harvesting of the ivory palm.

Variants and Related Words

• Ivory nut (noun): The hard, white seed of the ivory palm, used as a substitute for elephant ivory.
  • Buttons were once commonly made from ivory nuts.
• Tagua palm (noun): Another common name for the ivory palm.
• Vegetable ivory (noun): The material derived from the ivory nut.

Synonyms

• Tagua palm
• (scientific name)

Notes on Meaning

• The term "ivory palm" specifically denotes the plant itself. The commercial product derived from it is called "vegetable ivory" or "ivory nut." The name originates from the hard, ivory-like material its seeds provide.

Noun

1. a stemless palm tree of Brazil and Peru bearing ivory nuts