Fertilized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fertilized
[ˈfɜːrtəlaɪzd ]
Definition
agriculture, biology
Fertilized refers to a state of being made fertile or productive, particularly concerning the process in which sperm unites with an egg during reproduction. This term is commonly used in both agricultural and biological contexts to describe seeds or eggs that have undergone fertilization.
Synonyms
enhanced, enriched, impregnated.
Examples of usage
- The fertilized egg will develop into an embryo.
- Farmers apply fertilizers to ensure that crops are properly fertilized.
- In fertilized conditions, plant growth is significantly enhanced.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, fertilization is the process where male sperm combines with female ovum, initiating the development of a new organism.
- Different types of organisms have varying fertilization methods; for example, many fish release eggs and sperm into water, allowing fertilization to occur externally.
- In plants, fertilization can occur through various mechanisms, including pollination and the involvement of wind or insects.
Agriculture
- Modern agricultural practices often use chemical fertilizers to enhance soil nutrients, which can affect crop yield significantly.
- Organic fertilizers, derived from natural sources, are gaining popularity due to their environmentally friendly nature.
- The concept of crop rotation is based on the idea of improving soil fertility over time, leading to more sustainable farming.
Literature
- In literature, fertilization can symbolize growth and new beginnings, often representing the start of a journey or transformation.
- Famous poems about nature often draw parallels to the process of fertilization, suggesting renewal and vitality.
Health
- Fertilization in humans is a critical aspect of reproductive health and has led to advancements in fertility treatments, like IVF (In Vitro Fertilization).
- Understanding the timing of fertile periods is essential for individuals trying to conceive, highlighting the importance of this biological process.
Origin of 'fertilized'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'fertilize' comes from the Latin 'fertilis', meaning 'bearing fruit' or 'fruitful'.
- It was first recorded in English in the late 15th century, transitioning from agricultural usage to broader biological contexts.
The term 'fertilized' originates from the Latin word 'fertiliser', which means 'to make fruitful or rich'. It evolved into the adjective 'fertile', which predominantly refers to the ability to produce abundantly or yield. The extension of this term into the specific context of biology and agriculture highlights its relevance in describing processes related to reproduction and cultivation. In agriculture, the practice of fertilization has been crucial since ancient times, allowing farmers to enhance soil productivity. The scientific understanding of fertilization grew with advancements in biology, particularly with the discovery of reproductive mechanisms in plants and animals in the 19th century. Today, 'fertilized' is a widely used term in both academic and casual conversations surrounding biology, horticulture, and environmental sciences.