: the mature fruiting body of an ascomycetous fungus
broadly : such a body with its enclosed asci, spores, and paraphyses

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ascocarp was in 1882

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Cite this Entry

“Ascocarp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ascocarp. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

: the mature fruiting body of an ascomycetous fungus
broadly : such a body with its enclosed asci, spores, and paraphyses

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