Lichen: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
lichen
[ หlaษชkษn ]
biological term
Lichen is a composite organism arising from the symbiotic relationship between fungi and photosynthetic partners, typically algae or cyanobacteria. They can inhabit extreme environments and play critical roles in soil formation and nutrient cycling.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Lichens can be found on rocks and tree bark.
- Some lichens are sensitive to air pollution.
- Researchers study lichens to monitor environmental health.
Translations
Translations of the word "lichen" in other languages:
๐ต๐น lรญquen
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคพเค
๐ฉ๐ช Flechte
๐ฎ๐ฉ lumut
๐บ๐ฆ ะปะธัะฐะนะฝะธะบ
๐ต๐ฑ porost
๐ฏ๐ต ใณใฑ
๐ซ๐ท lichen
๐ช๐ธ lรญquen
๐น๐ท liken
๐ฐ๐ท ์ง์๋ฅ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุงูุทุญูุจ
๐จ๐ฟ liลกejnรญk
๐ธ๐ฐ machuฤพa
๐จ๐ณ ๅฐ่กฃ
๐ธ๐ฎ liลกaj
๐ฎ๐ธ lรญken
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะผาฏะบ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแฅแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ liken
๐ฒ๐ฝ lรญquen
Etymology
The word 'lichen' comes from the Greek term 'lichฤn', which was used to describe a type of fungus, and it has been in use since the 14th century. Historically, lichens have been important in various cultures, serving as dye sources, food for animals, and traditional medicines. The study of lichens has contributed to the understanding of symbiotic relationships in ecology. The growth patterns and color variations of lichens have also fascinated artists and scientists alike, making them a subject of interest in both art and science. Today, lichens are used as bioindicators to assess environmental conditions. Their unique properties allow them to thrive in harsh climates, contributing to their significance in biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #18,274, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 18271 immunized
- 18272 victors
- 18273 pinkish
- 18274 lichen
- 18275 overseeing
- 18276 lettered
- 18277 appertaining
- ...