Spore: meaning, definitions and examples

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spore

 

[spษ”ห ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biology

A spore is a small, usually single-celled reproductive body that is capable of growing into a new organism without fusion with another cell.

Synonyms

reproductive body, reproductive cell, seed.

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Word Description / Examples
spore

This term is commonly used in biology and microbiology to describe a unit of asexual reproduction that is capable of developing into a new individual, usually in fungi, bacteria, algae, and some plants.

  • Mushrooms release spores into the air to reproduce.
  • Spores can survive in harsh environmental conditions.
reproductive body

The term 'reproductive body' is more general and can refer to any part of an organism involved in reproduction. It is commonly used in a scientific context when discussing the reproductive structures of various organisms.

  • The reproductive body of ferns includes sporangia that produce spores.
  • Researchers studied the reproductive bodies of various plant species to understand their lifecycle.
seed

The term 'seed' is used in botany to describe the fertilized ovule of a plant, which contains an embryo capable of germinating into a new plant. It is often used when talking about angiosperms and gymnosperms.

  • She planted sunflower seeds in her garden.
  • Many fruits contain seeds that can grow into new plants.
reproductive cell

This term is often used in cellular biology to describe cells involved in sexual reproduction, such as gametes (sperm and egg cells).

  • Reproductive cells combine during fertilization to form a zygote.
  • Damage to reproductive cells can result in genetic mutations.

Examples of usage

  • Spores are often produced by bacteria, fungi, algae, and plants.
  • The fungal spores are dispersed by wind or water to colonize new areas.
  • Spores can survive in harsh conditions until they find a suitable environment to grow.
  • Many plants rely on spores for reproduction and dispersal.
  • In some species, spores serve as a means of survival during unfavorable conditions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'spore' originates from the Greek word 'spora,' meaning 'seed' or 'to sow,' reflecting its role in reproduction.
  • Historically, in the 19th century, the study of spores became significant with advancements in microbiology and botany.

Biology

  • Spores can be tough and survive extreme conditions, making them resilient against heat and moisture.
  • Unlike seeds, spores do not contain stored food but rely on their environments for nutrients to grow.

Ecology

  • Spores play a critical role in ecosystems by aiding in the reproduction of fungi and plants, which help form habitats.
  • They contribute to soil health and nutrient cycles, thus maintaining the balance of different ecosystems.

Pop Culture

  • Fungi and their spores are often depicted in movies and games as magical or mysterious elements, showcasing their fascinating nature.
  • The Pokรฉmon series features various creature characters inspired by spore-producing fungi, highlighting their imaginative appeal.

Science

  • Spores are used in biotechnology and agriculture for fermentation processes and growing certain crops.
  • Researchers study spores to understand ancient climates, as some have been preserved in sediment for millions of years.

Translations

Translations of the word "spore" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น esporo

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฌเฅ€เคœเคพเคฃเฅ (bฤซjฤแน‡u)

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Spor

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ spora

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ัะฟะพั€ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ zarodnik

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ่ƒžๅญ (ใปใ†ใ—, hลshi)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท spore

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ espora

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท spor

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ํฌ์ž (poja)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุจูˆุบ (bลซgh)

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ spora

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ spรณra

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅญขๅญ (bฤozว)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ spora

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ grรณ

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ัะฟะพั€ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒกแƒžแƒแƒ แƒ (spora)

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ spor

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ espora

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,713, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.