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Hermaphrodite: meaning, definitions and examples

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hermaphrodite

 

[ hɜːrˈmæfrədaɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

biological term

A hermaphrodite is an organism that possesses both male and female reproductive organs. This phenomenon allows such organisms to produce both sperm and eggs, facilitating reproduction with either gender. Many plants, invertebrates, and certain vertebrates like some fish exhibit hermaphroditism.

Synonyms

androgynous, bisexual, intersex.

Examples of usage

  • Most flowers are hermaphrodites, containing both stamens and pistils.
  • Some species of fish can change their sex and become hermaphrodites.
  • In certain snails, hermaphroditism ensures reproductive success in low-density populations.

Translations

Translations of the word "hermaphrodite" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hermafrodita

🇮🇳 नपुंसक

🇩🇪 Zwitter

🇮🇩 hermafrodit

🇺🇦 гермафродит

🇵🇱 hermafrodyta

🇯🇵 雌雄同体 (しゆうどうたい)

🇫🇷 hermaphrodite

🇪🇸 hermafrodita

🇹🇷 hermafrodit

🇰🇷 자웅동체

🇸🇦 خنثى

🇨🇿 hermafrodit

🇸🇰 hermafrodit

🇨🇳 雌雄同体

🇸🇮 hermafrodit

🇮🇸 hermafroditi

🇰🇿 гермафродит

🇬🇪 ჰერმაფროდიტი

🇦🇿 hermafrodit

🇲🇽 hermafrodita

Etymology

The term 'hermaphrodite' derives from the Latin 'hermaphroditus' and the Greek 'Hermaphroditos,' which is a combination of the names of the Greek gods Hermes and Aphrodite. In mythology, Hermaphroditos was the son of Hermes and Aphrodite, who was merged with the nymph Salmacis, resulting in a being that had the physical attributes of both sexes. This concept was later adopted in biological sciences to describe organisms that have traits associated with both male and female sexes. The historical allure of hermaphroditism in literature and art has shaped its interpretations over time, leading to varying views and representations across cultures. In the context of evolution, hermaphroditism is considered a reproductive strategy that can enhance genetic diversity and species survival.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,337, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.