1. plural of rachis; the main axes or central stems of compound leaves or feathers
Usage: botanical; anatomical

Examples

• The botanist examined the rachides of the fern fronds under the microscope.
• Bird feathers have central rachides that support the barbs on either side.
• The compound leaf’s rachides were damaged by the storm.
• Scientists studied how the rachides develop in different plant species.
• The rachides of palm fronds can grow quite thick and sturdy.