root rot

noun

: any of various plant diseases characterized by decay of the roots and caused especially by fungi

Examples of root rot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What to Do with a Waterlogged Plant Plants that have been waterlogged for awhile may develop root rot and other problems, but most plants will recover with proper care. — Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 10 Aug. 2026 Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is easily avoided in containers through careful irrigation. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 9 Aug. 2026 Mushrooms on the trunk or around the base may indicate internal decay or root rot, even if the canopy appears healthy. — Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 8 Aug. 2026 This may predispose plants to problems like root rot and damping off disease. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for root rot

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of root rot was in 1831

Rhymes for root rot

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Browse Nearby Words

root rake
root rot
root-run
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Cite this Entry

“Root rot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/root%20rot. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on root rot

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about root rot

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