1. A tropical climbing or pitcher plant of the genus Nepenthes, having modified leaves that form pitcher-shaped traps for catching insects.
Usage: Often used in singular or plural form; Commonly called a pitcher plant or tropical pitcher plant
2. In classical and literary contexts, a drug or potion that induces forgetfulness of sorrow or pain; an antidote to grief.
Usage: archaic; literary; from Greek mythology

Examples

• The nepenthes in the greenhouse requires high humidity and acidic soil to thrive.
• Nepenthes species are fascinating carnivorous plants found in Southeast Asia.
• The pitcher-shaped leaves of nepenthes trap insects that slip into the fluid-filled chamber.
• Collectors prize rare nepenthes varieties for their unusual and colorful pitchers.
• In Homer's Odyssey, nepenthe was a magical substance that eased the pain of loss.