Definition

This word describes something that happens by chance or is not naturally part of something. It often refers to structures or features that develop in unexpected places, rather than where they usually belong.

Example

The adventitious roots of the plant helped it survive in the rocky soil.

Conversation

Did you notice how that plant has adventitious roots growing everywhere?

Yeah, it looks pretty interesting! I've never seen that before.

I read that they can develop in unexpected places, which is pretty cool.

Definitely! Nature has such unique ways of adapting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Adventitious → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "ventus" (meaning coming or arrival). The word describes something that comes to a place or situation by chance rather than by design.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'comes to' ('ad-') you unexpectedly — that's what adventitious means.

Visually Confused Words