Fērn, n.

n. [A.-S. fearn, N. H. Ger. farn, farn-kraut, O. H. Ger. farn, farnn, M. H. Ger. varn, D. vaaren.] (Bot.) An order of cryptogamous plants, the Filices, which have their fructification on the back of the fronds or leaves. They are usually found in humid soil, sometimes grow parasitically on trees, and in tropical climates often attain a gigantic size.