1. a large tropical tree with aerial roots that grow down from the branches to form additional trunks

Examples

• The ancient banyan tree provided shade for the entire village square.
• Tourists gathered under the massive banyan to escape the tropical heat.
• The banyan’s aerial roots created a natural cathedral of living pillars.
• Birds nested in the sprawling branches of the old banyan.
• The banyan tree is considered sacred in many Hindu traditions.
• Children played hide-and-seek among the banyan’s many trunks.