Definition

Describing a type of reproduction that involves different types of gametes or the presence of both male and female reproductive structures.

Example

Many plants are heterogamous, having both male and female flowers on separate parts of the same plant.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants are heterogamous?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they have both male and female flowers on them.

That's interesting! I never realized plants could be like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterogamous → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "gamos" (from Greek "gamos", meaning marriage or union). The word describes a type of reproduction or relationship involving different types or species.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') coming together in a 'union' ('gamos') — that's what heterogamous means.

Visually Confused Words