Definition

A movement or orientation of an organism in response to gravity, where gravity influences the direction of movement.

Example

The geotaxis of the plant allowed it to grow towards the ground, following the pull of gravity.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of geotaxis?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's when organisms move in response to gravity, like how roots grow downwards.

That sounds really interesting! I never knew there was a term for that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Geotaxis is formed from "geo-" (meaning earth) and "taxis" (from Greek "taxis", meaning arrangement or order). The word describes the movement or orientation of an organism in response to the force of gravity, essentially arranging itself in relation to the earth.

Memory Tip

Think of 'geo-' meaning earth and 'taxis' meaning arrangement — this helps you remember that geotaxis refers to how organisms orient themselves in relation to the earth.

Visually Confused Words