palmetto
n. countable C1 Advanced US //pæɫˈmɛtoʊ// pal·met·to
n. a type of palm tree that grows in warm, wet areas. It has long, fan-shaped leaves and is often found in places like Florida or the Caribbean.
n. any of several species of palm trees in the genus Sabal, characterized by fan-shaped leaves and a preference for humid, subtropical climates.
The palmetto trees swayed in the warm ocean breeze.
During the hurricane, the palmetto trees provided a natural windbreak for the coastal homes.
The Florida palmetto is the state tree, symbolizing the resilience of the region's ecosystem against both drought and high winds.
From Spanish palmito, diminutive of palma (“palm tree”), from Latin palma. Doublet of palmite and palmito.