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gymnosperm

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈdʒɪm.nəʊ.spɜːm/

KK: /ˈdʒɪm.nəʊ.spɜːrm/

noun
Definition

A type of plant that produces seeds that are not covered by an ovary or fruit, including groups like conifers and cycads.


Example

Pine trees are examples of gymnosperms, as their seeds are exposed on cones.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that a gymnosperm is a type of plant with exposed seeds?
Sloth B
Yeah, like conifers and cycads, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it fascinating how they reproduce without fruit.
Sloth B
Me too! Nature has so many interesting adaptations.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
conifer
cycad
ginkgo
Antonyms
angiosperm
flowering
fruiting
Root Explanation

Gymnosperm → It is formed from "gymnos" (from Greek, meaning naked) and "sperma" (from Greek, meaning seed). The word "gymnosperm" refers to plants that have naked seeds, meaning their seeds are not enclosed in an ovary.

Memory Tip

Think of 'naked' ('gymnos') seeds — that's why gymnosperms are plants with seeds that are exposed.

Visually Confused Words
progymnosperm
monosperm
progymnospermic
monospermy
hypnosperm
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