1. plural of rachis; the main stems or axes of compound leaves or feathers
Usage: botanical and zoological term

Examples

• The botanist examined the rachises of the fern fronds under a microscope.
• Bird feathers have central rachises that support the barbs on either side.
• The compound leaf’s rachises were damaged by the storm.
• Students learned to identify different types of rachises in their biology class.
• The rachises of palm fronds can grow quite long and sturdy.
• Fossil rachises help scientists understand ancient plant structures.