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Glite Dictionary
ribbon grass

ribbon grass

7.7
A grass that lives for many years with broad striped leaves that grows in wet places like ponds and ditches
  • noun
  • /ˈrɪbən ɡræs/
  • UK
translation icon : hierba cinta
  • The ribbon grass swayed gently in the breeze.

Examples

  • The edges of the pond were lined with clumps of ribbon grass waving gently in the breeze.

  • He planted ribbon grass along the ditch to help control soil erosion.

  • Ribbon grass is popular in water gardens because of its attractive striped leaves.

  • Many gardeners love ribbon grass for its unique appearance.

  • The garden was adorned with vibrant ribbon grass, adding a splash of color to the marshy landscape.

  • In the wetland area, ribbon grass flourished among the reeds and other aquatic plants.

  • The gardener planted ribbon grass along the edge of the pond to create a natural border.

Synonyms

reed canary grass
vsribbon grass
  • UK
7.5

A tall grass that lives for many years and grows in wet places like riverbanks and ditches

has broad leaves that are often striped rather than plain
Phalaris arundinacea
vsribbon grass
  • Specialized
9.9

A tall grass with wide leaves that grows in wet places

has broad leaves that are often striped rather than plain
lady's laces
vsribbon grass
  • Specialized
9.9

A grass with broad leaves that grows in wet meadows and ditches

has broad leaves that are often striped rather than plain
gardener's garters
vsribbon grass
  • UK
9.9

A grass with broad leaves that grows for many years in marshy meadows and ditches

has broad leaves that are often striped rather than plain

Surface Forms

ribbon grass singular
ribbon grasses plural

Morphology

ribbon + grass

The noun is a straightforward descriptive compound: 'ribbon' (a long strip) modifies 'grass' to indicate a grass with ribbon-like, broad or striped leaves. This compositional pattern is common and predictable, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents would likely infer the meaning.

Etymology

Ribbon grass comes from the plant's long, flat leaves with pale stripes that look like a ribbon. So the words ribbon and grass together mean a grass with 'ribbon-like' striped leaves.