n :  a genus (the type of the family Polyporaceae) of fungi having fruiting bodies that are sessile or borne on a stipe and including important pathogens of various trees and in some classifications the fungus (Fomes officinalis syn. P. officinalis) supplying the drug agaric formerly used to treat excessive perspiration .
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.