- A treelike perennial herb (Musa paradisiaca) of tropical
regions, bearing immense leaves and large clusters of the fruits called
plantains. See Musa. - The fruit of this plant. It is long and somewhat
cylindrical, slightly curved, and, when ripe, soft, fleshy, and covered
with a thick but tender yellowish skin. The plantain is a staple
article of food in most tropical countries, especially when cooked. - Any plant of the genus Plantago, but especially the P.
major, a low herb with broad spreading radical leaves, and slender
spikes of minute flowers. It is a native of Europe, but now found near
the abode of civilized man in nearly all parts of the world.
Definition
[ n.]