Spawning: meaning, definitions and examples

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spawning

 

[ ˈspɔːnɪŋ ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

biological process

Spawning refers to the process in which aquatic animals release their eggs and sperm into the water, leading to fertilization. This term is most often associated with fish but can apply to other species as well. Spawning typically occurs seasonally and can involve complex mating rituals.

Synonyms

breeding, laying eggs, reproduction.

Examples of usage

  • The salmon migrate upstream to begin spawning.
  • Spawning season is critical for the survival of many fish species.
  • Some frogs choose to spawn in temporary ponds.
Context #2 | Noun

reproductive act

Spawning is the act of releasing eggs and sperm in a reproductive process. It is a crucial phase in the life cycle of various aquatic organisms, contributing to the continuation of their species.

Synonyms

breeding, offspring production, propagation.

Examples of usage

  • The spawning of fish can attract many predators in the area.
  • Observing the spawning behavior of frogs can be quite fascinating.
  • The lake is known for its salmon spawning.

Translations

Translations of the word "spawning" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reprodução

🇮🇳 जनन

🇩🇪 Fortpflanzung

🇮🇩 pemijahan

🇺🇦 розмноження

🇵🇱 rozmnażanie

🇯🇵 産卵

🇫🇷 reproduction

🇪🇸 reproducción

🇹🇷 üreme

🇰🇷 산란

🇸🇦 التكاثر

🇨🇿 rozmnožování

🇸🇰 rozmnožovanie

🇨🇳 繁殖

🇸🇮 razmnoževanje

🇮🇸 fjölgun

🇰🇿 көбею

🇬🇪 რეპროდუქცია

🇦🇿 çəkmə

🇲🇽 reproducción

Etymology

The term 'spawning' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the word 'spawn', which itself comes from the Old French 'espaundre', meaning to lay eggs. The use of the term specifically relating to aquatic life is noted in historical texts pertaining to fisheries and biological studies. Over time, 'spawning' has come to be associated not only with fish but also with a variety of other organisms in water, such as amphibians and certain invertebrates. The ecological importance of spawning has led to extensive research and conservation efforts aimed at protecting critical spawning habitats across the globe.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,820, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.