Definition

Relating to a type of plant that produces seeds that are not enclosed in an ovary or fruit.

Example

Pine trees are examples of gymnospermous plants that produce cones instead of flowers.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants are gymnospermous?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they have seeds that aren't protected by a capsule.

That’s interesting! I always thought all seeds were covered in something.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gymnospermous → It is formed from "gymnos" (from Greek 'γυμνός', meaning naked) and "sperma" (from Greek 'σπέρμα', meaning seed). The word describes plants that have naked seeds, not enclosed in an ovary.

Memory Tip

Think of 'naked' ('gymnos') seeds that are not covered ('sperma') — that's what gymnospermous plants are.

Visually Confused Words