Definition

Noun: 1. A widely distributed perennial sedge having small edible nutlike tubers: A type of grass-like plant (sedge) that grows for many years, is found in many regions, and produces small, tuberous structures underground that resemble nuts and are edible.

Usage

• As a common noun: The term is used to identify a specific category of wetland or garden weed.
  • The farmer worked to control the nut sedge in the rice field.
  • This herbicide is effective against nut sedge.

Advanced Usage

• As a botanical term: In formal or scientific contexts, "nut sedge" refers specifically to plants of the genus , particularly (yellow nutsedge) and (purple nutsedge).
  • The study focused on the invasive properties of nut sedge species.

Variants and Related Words

• Nutsedge (noun): A common alternative spelling, often written as one word.
  • Nutsedge is difficult to eradicate because of its tubers.
• Nutgrass (noun): A common informal name for the same plant, highlighting its grass-like appearance.
  • Many gardeners mistakenly call it nutgrass.

Synonyms

• Coco-grass (noun): A regional name.
• Earth almond (noun): A name referring to the edible quality of its tubers.
• Chufa (noun): A name often used for when cultivated for its edible tubers.

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning is botanical, referring to the plant itself. Its "nutlike tubers" are a defining characteristic but are not the primary meaning of the term "nut sedge." The word identifies the plant that produces them.

Noun

1. a widely distributed perennial sedge having small edible nutlike tubers