Stem

stem, n. the ascending axis of a plant, which usually bears leaves and flowers, and maintains communication between the roots and the leaves: the little branch supporting the flower or fruit: a race or family: branch of a family.— n. Stem′-leaf , a leaf growing from the stem.— adj. Stem′le ( bot. ), wanting a stem, or having it so little developed as to seem to be wanting.— ns. Stem′let , a little or young stem; Stem′ma , a pedigree or family tree: an ocellus.— adjs. Stem′matous ; Stemmed . [A.S. stæfn , stefn , stemn , from stæf , a staff; Ger. stab .]