1. A genus of aquatic plants of the water-lily family, native to Asia and North America, bearing large round leaves and showy flowers; the sacred lotus.
Usage: botanical; often capitalized when referring to the genus

Examples

• The nelumbium plant is revered in many Asian cultures for its spiritual significance.
• Nelumbium flowers bloom in shades of pink and white above the water's surface.
• The nelumbium's large leaves can reach up to two feet in diameter.
• Ancient Egyptians cultivated nelumbium in their sacred pools.
• The seed pods of nelumbium are used in traditional Asian cuisine.