Stems: meaning, definitions and examples

This is used when referring to the main part of a plant or flower that supports it. It's appropriate for technical or scientific discussions as well as general descriptions of plants.

• The roses have long, thorny stems.
• She carefully trimmed the stems of the flowers before arranging them in the vase.

This word refers to the main stem of a plant, especially a thick or tall one. It can also be used more broadly to describe other long, supportive plant structures.

• Corn has thick stalks that can reach several feet in height.
• She bent down to examine the stalk of the sunflower.

This term is best used when referring to the main woody stem of a tree. It's not typically used for smaller plants and is more common in discussions about trees and forestry.

• The oak tree has a thick, sturdy trunk.
• Children often like to carve their initials into the trunk of a tree.

This term is used when talking about a new growth from a plant or tree. It's often used in gardening and botanical contexts, particularly when discussing plant development.

• The plant started to grow new shoots in the spring.
• After pruning, several shoots began to appear.

Use when referring to the origin or cause of something, or in botany for the main structural part of a plant.

• Her inspiration stems from her childhood experiences
• The flower has long, slender stems

General term used in everyday language for ceasing movement or activity.

• Please stop talking during the movie
• I had to stop the car to avoid hitting the deer

Used in formal or urgent situations to indicate a complete and sudden stop.

• The police officer ordered the driver to halt
• Production came to a halt after the machine broke down

Best for describing something that obstructs movement or progress, both physically and metaphorically.

• The road is blocked due to construction
• His fear of failure blocks his path to success