Any palm tree having fan-shaped or radiate leaves; as the
   Chamaerops humilis of Southern Europe; the species of Sabal and Thrinax
   in the West Indies, Florida, etc.; and especially the great talipot
   tree (Corypha umbraculifera) of Ceylon and Malaya. The leaves of the
   latter are often eighteen feet long and fourteen wide, and are used for
   umbrellas, tents, and roofs. When cut up, they are used for books and
   manuscripts.