Definition

Relating to a type of flower that remains closed and fertilizes itself without opening.

Example

Some plants have cleistogamous flowers that ensure pollination even in the absence of pollinators.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants have cleistogamous flowers?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they have flowers that don’t open and self-pollinate.

That sounds fascinating! I guess it helps them reproduce more easily.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cleistogamous → It is formed from "cleisto-" (from Greek "kleistos", meaning closed) and "gamos" (from Greek "gamos", meaning marriage). The word describes a type of flower that is self-fertilizing and does not open, hence the meaning of closed marriage.

Memory Tip

Think of 'closed' ('cleisto-') flowers that 'marry' ('gamos') themselves without opening — that's what cleistogamous means.

Visually Confused Words