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Definition of reedmace

reedmace

/ˈriːd.meɪs/
reed · mace
Plural:reedmaces
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reedmace Lexical Profile

• noun

1

British A tall marsh or wetland plant of the genus Typha, characterized by long, strap-like leaves and a distinctive, dense, velvety brown, cylindrical flower head.

Example

"We gathered along the edge of the wetlands, admiring the tall stalks of reedmace swaying gently in the breeze."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for reedmace

Word Nuance & Usage

In British English, 'reedmace' is the botanically accurate term for the plant widely but incorrectly called a 'bulrush', whereas in North America, it is universally known as a 'cattail'.

• Nearby Words

reedbuck
reedfish
reedling
reedmace
reel
refill
reflector

Word Origin & Etymology

A compound of the words 'reed' and 'mace' dating back to the 16th century, so named because the plant's distinctive, thick, cylindrical brown flower spike resembles a medieval mace.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Reedmace. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 22, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/reedmace
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