xylem

noun

xy·​lem ˈzī-ləm How to pronounce xylem (audio)
-ˌlem
: a complex tissue in the vascular system of higher plants that consists of vessels, tracheids, or both usually together with wood fibers and parenchyma cells, functions chiefly in conduction of water and dissolved minerals but also in support and food storage, and typically constitutes the woody element (as of a plant stem) compare phloem

Examples of xylem in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Calcium is taken up through the roots and relies on water flow through the xylem for transport through the plant. — Nora Doonan, Hartford Courant, 14 June 2025 Researchers said the noises are the sound of popping air bubbles, which plants produce in their xylem, a tissue that moves water. — Kyle Melnick, Washington Post, 4 Apr. 2023 The fungus attacks the xylem, or water-conducting vessels of the trees, and the tree responds by plugging its tissues. — Ryan Maxin, Austin American-Statesman, 11 Feb. 2024 The remnants of the xylem and phloem — tubules that transport water, sugars and nutrients throughout living leaves — somehow become a root. — Douglas Main, New York Times, 25 Feb. 2024 See All Example Sentences for xylem

Word History

Etymology

German, from Greek xylon

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of xylem was in 1873

Phrases Containing xylem

Rhymes for xylem

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Browse Nearby Words

Xyleborus
xylem
xylem fiber
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Xylem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/xylem. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

xylem

noun
xy·​lem ˈzī-ləm How to pronounce xylem (audio)
-ˌlem
: a tissue of higher plants that carries water and dissolved materials upward, functions also in support and storage, lies deeper inside the plant than the phloem, and usually makes up the woody parts (as of a plant stem) compare phloem

More from Merriam-Webster on xylem

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about xylem

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