Definition

A type of plant that is grown from parts of the same original plant, such as cuttings or buds, rather than from seeds. This method allows for the exact genetic copy of the original plant.

Example

The gardener used clons to ensure that the new plants would have the same characteristics as the parent plant.

Conversation

Have you ever tried growing a clon of that apple tree we saw last summer?

No, but it sounds interesting! How does that work?

It's pretty simple; you just take a cutting and plant it to create a new clon.

That's cool! I might give it a shot this spring.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clon is derived from the Greek word 'klon' (κλων), meaning a twig or a sprout. In modern usage, it refers to a genetic copy or replica, emphasizing the idea of producing something that is a direct copy of another.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'twig' or 'sprout' ('klon') as a small part of a plant that can grow into a new one — that's why 'clon' refers to making a copy or replica.

Visually Confused Words