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Pollinator Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pollinator

[หˆpษ‘หlษชneษชtษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

insects

A pollinator is an animal that moves pollen from the male anther of a flower to the female stigma of a flower, allowing fertilization to take place.

Synonyms

pollen carrier, pollen spreader.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pollinator

Same as the first entry, this word is commonly used when discussing the broader concept of pollination in scientific, agricultural, or environmental discussions.

  • Many crops depend on pollinators for fruit production.
  • Pollinator-friendly gardens can help support local wildlife.
pollen carrier

This term is more descriptive and might be used in both scientific discussions and casual conversations to explain the function of an animal or insect in the pollination process.

  • The butterfly acts as a pollen carrier, aiding the fertilization process.
  • Certain birds can also serve as pollen carriers.
pollen spreader

This term is less formal and could be used in everyday language or in layman's explanations, sometimes carrying a sense of activity or movement.

  • Wind can be a natural pollen spreader.
  • Insects like bees are effective pollen spreaders.

Examples of usage

  • Bees are important pollinators for many plants.
  • Butterflies and hummingbirds are also common pollinators.
  • Some fruits, like apples and cherries, rely on pollinators for their growth.
  • Pollen transfer by pollinators is essential for the reproduction of many plant species.
  • Pollinators play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Ecology

  • Approximately 75% of the world's flowering plants depend on pollinators to reproduce.
  • Pollinators help produce fruits, nuts, and seeds, which are essential for human diets and livestock feed.

Biodiversity

  • While bees are the most recognized pollinators, many other creatures like birds, bats, and even wind assist this vital function.
  • Over 200,000 species of animals globally are known to contribute to pollination, showcasing a rich biodiversity.

Cultural Impact

  • Many cultures enjoy festivals celebrating pollinators, particularly bees, which symbolize community and hard work.
  • Pollinators have appeared in art and literature as symbols of natureโ€™s beauty and the interconnectedness of life.

Agriculture

  • About one-third of the food we eat relies on the work of pollinators, making them crucial for food security.
  • Pollinator decline due to habitat loss and pesticides poses a significant threat to global food supplies.

Origin of 'pollinator'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pollinator' comes from the Latin word 'pollinare,' which means 'to spread pollen.'
  • The term has been used since the late 19th century as scientists began to understand the important role these creatures play in ecosystems.

The term 'pollinator' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the Latin word 'pollin-' meaning 'fine flour' or 'dust'. The concept of pollination and the importance of pollinators in plant reproduction have been recognized for centuries, but the term 'pollinator' became more widely used with the increase in scientific research on plant biology and ecology.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,052 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.