GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   Yam (yăm), n. [Pg. inhame, probably from some native name.]
   1. (Bot.) A large, esculent, farinaceous tuber of various climbing plants of the genus Dioscorea; also, the plants themselves. Mostly natives of warm climates. The plants have netted-veined, petioled leaves, and pods with three broad wings. The commonest species is Dioscorea sativa, but several others are cultivated.
   
   [1913 Webster]
   
   
   2. (Bot.) Any one of several cultural varieties of the sweet potato. [U. S.]
   
   [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
   
   Chinese yam, a plant (Dioscorea Batatas) with a long and slender tuber, hardier than most of the other species. -- Wild yam. (a) A common plant (Dioscorea villosa) of the Eastern United States, having a hard and knotty rootstock. (b) An orchidaceous plant (Gastrodia sesamoides) of Australia and Tasmania.
   
   [1913 Webster]