Definition

Noun 1. A type of grass: Any of several perennial grasses belonging to the genus Glyceria. These grasses are characterized by their preference for moist or wet habitats, such as marshes, stream banks, and wet meadows. Some species are noted for having a sweet taste or scent.

Usage and Examples

• As a common noun:

  • The wet meadow was filled with manna grass and sedges.
  • Botanists identified several species of manna grass along the riverbank.

• In a descriptive context:

  • Some early settlers are said to have chewed the sweet stems of manna grass.
  • The pasture's low, boggy area is ideal for manna grass.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• Taxonomic Context: The term is used specifically in botany and ecology to refer to grasses in the genus . It is often modified by the species name for precision (e.g., , known as floating manna grass).
• Historical/Descriptive Use: The "sweet flavor or odor" mentioned in some definitions refers to the historical or anecdotal use of certain species, not a prominent feature for all.

Variants and Related Words

• Reed manna grass (): A tall, robust species often found in wetlands.
• Floating manna grass (): A species with stems that often float on water.
• Glyceria: The scientific genus name for manna grass.

Synonyms

• Sweet grass (Note: This can refer to other fragrant grasses, like , so it is not a perfect synonym.)
• Meadow grass (This is a broader term for grasses found in meadows, not specific to moist habitats.)

Different Meanings

The word manna grass does not have other distinct, unrelated meanings. It refers consistently to grasses of the genus Glyceria. It should not be confused with "manna" from biblical contexts, which is a spiritual or miraculous food.

Noun

1. any of several moisture-loving grasses of the genus Glyceria having sweet flavor or odor