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epiphyte

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈɛpɪfaɪt/

KK: /ˈɛpɪfaɪt/

noun
Definition

A type of plant that grows on another plant for support but does not take nutrients from it, often found in tropical environments.


Example

The epiphyte clung to the tree branch, thriving in the humid air.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of an epiphyte?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it's a plant that grows on other plants, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I saw a beautiful epiphyte at the botanical garden yesterday.
Sloth B
Those are so unique! I love how they thrive without soil.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
aerophyte
airplant
orchid
Antonyms
parasite
saprophyte
terrestrial
Root Explanation

Epiphyte → It is formed from "epi-" (meaning upon) and "phyton" (meaning plant). The word describes a plant that grows upon another plant, typically without harming it, using it merely for support.

Memory Tip

Imagine a plant that grows 'upon' another plant — 'epi-' means upon, and 'phyton' means plant. This helps you remember that an epiphyte is a plant that lives on another plant.

Visually Confused Words
lepidophyte
epicyte
eophyte
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