Definition

The process of a plant naturally losing its leaves, flowers, or fruits, often at a specific area where the separation occurs.

Example

The abscission of leaves in autumn is a natural process that prepares trees for winter.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how trees go through abscission in the fall?

Yeah, it's interesting to see the leaves change color and eventually fall off.

Right? It's like nature's way of preparing for winter with that whole abscission process.

Exactly! It's a beautiful cycle that keeps the ecosystem healthy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Abscission is formed from "ab-" (meaning away) and "scindere" (meaning to cut). The word describes the act of cutting away or separating something from a larger whole.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cutting away' something ('ab-' means away and 'scindere' means to cut) — that's what abscission means.

Visually Confused Words