proper noun Nostoc n. (Bot.) A genus of algae. The plants are composed of moniliform cells imbedded in a gelatinous substance. Note: Nostoc commune is found on the ground, and is ordinarily not seen; but after a rain it swells up into a conspicuous jellylike mass, which was formerly supposed to have fallen from the sky, whence the popular names, fallen star and star jelly. Also called witches' butter.
Collaborative International Dictionary of English 0.48
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