stem

//stɛm//
B1Frequency Level 8Neutral
Visual representation of stem

Noun

stemSingular
stemsPlural
1

The main body or stalk of a plant or shrub, typically rising above ground but occasionally subterranean.

The stem of the rose is covered with thorns.

2

The main upright part of something, especially the slender part of a wine glass between the base and the bowl.

She held the wine glass by its stem.

3

The root or main part of a word, to which inflections or formative elements are added.

In the word 'walking', 'walk' is the stem.

4

The main line of descent of a family or nation.

He traced his family stem back to the 16th century.

Synonym

Verb

stemInfinitive
stemPresent tense
stemmedPast tense
stemmedPast participle
stemmingPresent participle
stemsThird-person singular
1

To originate in or be caused by something.

Many of his problems stem from his childhood.

2

To stop or restrict the flow or movement of something.

They tried to stem the flow of blood from the wound.

3

To remove the stems from fruit or tobacco leaves.

She stemmed the strawberries before making jam.