Stem: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฑ
stem
[stษm ]
Definitions
science
The main body or stalk of a plant or shrub, typically rising above ground but occasionally subterranean.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stem |
This appears to be a duplicate of the first word 'stem'. Please refer to the context and examples provided for the first 'stem'. |
| stalk |
Use 'stalk' when referring to the main stem of a herbaceous plant or the slender support of an individual flower/fruit. It is often used to describe thicker or more robust stems.
|
| trunk |
Use 'trunk' when referring to the main woody stem of a tree. It is a term that describes the central support of larger plants.
|
| shoot |
Use 'shoot' when referring to a new growth emerging from the ground or from an older stem. This term often implies something young and fresh.
|
Examples of usage
- The stem of a flower.
- The stem of a tree.
biology
To support and hold in place; to be the connecting or main part.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stem |
Used to describe the origin or source of something in a more descriptive or historical context. It can also mean to stop something.
|
| originate |
Used to specify the beginning or starting point of something, often in a geographical or historical context.
|
| arise |
Used to describe the emergence or occurrence of situations, opportunities, or problems. Generally, it indicates something coming into existence unexpectedly or naturally.
|
| derive |
Used to explain that something has been obtained or developed from a specific source, usually in an analytical or scientific context.
|
Examples of usage
- The veins that stem the leaf.
- The river stems from the mountains.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'stem' comes from the Old English word 'stemn,' which means trunk or stem of a plant.
- In botanical terms, the use of 'stem' has been documented since the 14th century, showing its long-standing importance in plant biology.
- The Latin word 'stema' also relates to the concept of support, linking to its functions in plants.
Botanical Science
- Stems have various important roles, including transporting water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves.
- Some plants, like cacti, have adapted their stems to store water, showcasing diverse survival strategies.
- The thickness and flexibility of a stem can vary greatly depending on the plant species, influencing its overall growth and health.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, flowers are given as symbols of love and care, with the stem representing the support and strength behind those feelings.
- The phrase 'getting to the root of the matter' highlights the importance of understanding the foundational 'stem' of any issue.
- In art, a flowerโs stem is often portrayed to emphasize the beauty of the flower, reminding viewers of support and connection.
Agriculture
- Farmers often use pruning techniques on stems to enhance growth and encourage better fruit production.
- The height and strength of a stem can significantly affect how much sunlight a plant receives, influencing its ability to photosynthesize.
- Sustainable practices focus on managing plant stems to improve crop yield while reducing environmental impact.
Popular Culture
- The term 'stem' is used in various slang contexts, such as 'STEM' referring to fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
- In animation and film, stems are often anthropomorphized to depict how plants communicate and support each other in their ecosystems.
- Music references to stems often symbolize a foundation or core element in a song that supports the harmony and melody.
Translations
Translations of the word "stem" in other languages:
๐ต๐น caule
๐ฎ๐ณ เคคเคจเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Stamm
๐ฎ๐ฉ batang
๐บ๐ฆ ััะตะฑะปะพ
๐ต๐ฑ ลodyga
๐ฏ๐ต ่
๐ซ๐ท tige
๐ช๐ธ tallo
๐น๐ท gรถvde
๐ฐ๐ท ์ค๊ธฐ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุณุงู
๐จ๐ฟ stonek
๐ธ๐ฐ stonka
๐จ๐ณ ่
๐ธ๐ฎ steblo
๐ฎ๐ธ stรถng
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะฐะฑะฐา
๐ฌ๐ช แขแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ sap
๐ฒ๐ฝ tallo