Rootlet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🌱
rootlet
[ˈruːt.lɛt ]
Definition
botanical term
A rootlet is a small root, particularly a secondary root that grows off the main root of a plant. Rootlets typically contribute to the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. They can also help anchor the plant more firmly in the ground.
Synonyms
fibrous root, small root.
Examples of usage
- The rootlets of the plant spread outwards.
- Rootlets are crucial for water absorption.
- Careful handling can prevent damage to delicate rootlets.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'rootlet'
The term 'rootlet' is derived from the combination of the word 'root' and the diminutive suffix '-let'. The word 'root' originates from the Old English 'wrot', which is of Germanic origin and is related to other Indo-European languages that have similar terms for parts of a plant. The use of '-let' as a diminutive has been present in the English language since the 14th century, indicating something small or lesser in size. This linguistic formation illustrates the evolution of agricultural terminology, reflecting the importance of understanding plant structures for cultivation and botany. The first known use of 'rootlet' dates back to the 19th century, highlighting its role in the study of plants and their anatomy.