Definition

The way a plant grows or moves in response to sunlight, usually bending towards the light source.

Example

Sunflowers exhibit heliotropism by turning their heads to follow the sun throughout the day.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants exhibit heliotropism to follow the sun?

Really? That’s fascinating!

Yeah, it helps them get the most light for photosynthesis.

I love how nature has such smart adaptations like that!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heliotropism → It is formed from "helios" (ἥλιος) (meaning sun) and "tropos" (τροπή) (meaning turn). The word describes the phenomenon of plants turning towards the sun.

Memory Tip

Imagine plants 'turning' ('tropos') towards the 'sun' ('helios') — that's why heliotropism means the growth or movement of plants in the direction of sunlight.

Visually Confused Words