portia tree

noun

por·​tia tree
ˈpōrshə-
sometimes capitalized P
: a tropical tree (Thespesia populnea) that is closely related to the majaguas, has rounded cordate leaves and showy yellow and purple flowers, yields a valuable pinkish to dark red close-textured wood resistant to warping and an oil from its seeds, and is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental

called also bendy tree, seaside mahoe, tulip tree

Word History

Etymology

Tamil puraśu

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near portia tree

Cite this Entry

“Portia tree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/portia%20tree. Accessed 27 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!