Bulbose

/bʌlˈboʊs/ adjective

Definition

Having the shape or characteristics of a bulb; swollen or rounded like a bulb.

Etymology

From Latin 'bulbosus' (bulb-shaped), derived from 'bulbus' (bulb), an ancient word possibly borrowed from Greek 'bolbos.'

Kelly Says

This word is a botanical term that painters and writers love because it's much more evocative than just saying 'bulb-shaped'—Victorian naturalists used it to describe everything from flower parts to the weird swollen roots of certain plants.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.