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Botany Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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botany

[หˆbษ’tษ™ni ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

field of study

Botany is the scientific study of plants, including their physiology, structure, growth, evolution, and taxonomy. It encompasses various aspects, such as plant ecology, plant genetics, and the interactions between plants and their environment. Botanists also study the economic importance of plants, exploring their uses in medicine, agriculture, and horticulture. The field plays a crucial role in understanding biodiversity and developing conservation strategies for plant species.

Synonyms

flora study, plant biology, plant science.

Examples of usage

  • Botany helps us understand plant diseases.
  • He decided to major in botany at university.
  • The botany department conducts research on native flora.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Chinese, had extensive knowledge of plants for medicine and agriculture.
  • Theophrastus, a student of Aristotle, is often called the 'father of botany' for his work in classifying plants over 2000 years ago.

Science

  • Botany is a key branch of biology that encompasses not just the study of plants but their ecological interactions as well.
  • Modern botany includes fields such as plant physiology, plant taxonomy, and phytochemistry.

Cultural Significance

  • Many traditional cultures relied on botany to develop medicinal practices and sustainable agriculture.
  • Botanical gardens around the world fulfill roles in conservation, education, and public enjoyment.

Technological Advances

  • The invention of the microscope in the 17th century revolutionized botany, allowing scientists to study plant cells closely.
  • Recent advancements, such as genetic engineering, have significant implications for agriculture and biodiversity.

Origin of 'botany'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'botane', meaning 'grass' or 'herb', which reflects the initial focus on these types of plants.
  • In the Middle Ages, the term evolved to encompass a wider study of plants, including trees and flowers.

The term 'botany' originates from the Greek word 'botanฤ“', which means 'pasture' or 'grass'. This reflects the early use of the term to describe the study of plants useful for grazing animals. The study of plants has ancient roots, with significant contributions made by figures like Aristotle and Theophrastus in the 4th century BC, who is often called the 'father of botany'. Over the centuries, the field expanded with discoveries during the Renaissance and the development of taxonomy by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century, who formalized the naming and classification of plants. Today, botany encompasses a wide range of scientific disciplines and continues to evolve with advances in molecular biology and ecology.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,593, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.