Yam
Yam
(ym), n. [Pg. inhame, probably from some native name.] 1. (Bot.) A large, esculent, farinaceous tuber of various climbing plants of the genus Dioscorea; also, the plants themselves. Mostly natives of warm climates. The plants have netted-veined, petioled leaves, and pods with three broad wings. The commonest species is Dioscorea sativa, but several others are cultivated.[1913 Webster]
2.
(Bot.) Any one of several cultural varieties of the sweet potato.
[U. S.]
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
Chinese yam, a plant (Dioscorea Batatas) with a long and slender tuber, hardier than most of the other species. --
Wild yam. (a) A common plant (Dioscorea villosa) of the Eastern United States, having a hard and knotty rootstock. (b) An orchidaceous plant (Gastrodia sesamoides) of Australia and Tasmania.
[1913 Webster]
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