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Definition of nyssa
nyssa
/ˈnɪs.ə/
nys · sa
Plural:nyssas
nyssa Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
12
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
nyssa Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A genus of deciduous trees and shrubs, commonly known as tupelos, native to eastern North America and eastern Asia, noted for their preference for wet habitats and vibrant autumn foliage.
Example
"The botanist identified the swamp-dwelling tree as a member of the genus Nyssa."
2
North American Any individual tree belonging to the genus Nyssa, such as the black tupelo or the water tupelo.
Example
"We planted a nyssa near the edge of the pond to help stabilize the moist soil."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for nyssa• Rhymes for nyssa
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined by Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753, derived from 'Nysa', a water nymph in Greek mythology. Linnaeus chose the name because the best-known species of the genus typically grow in swamps or shallow water.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Nyssa. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/nyssa