Definition

Describing a type of fruit that does not open to release its seeds when it is mature.

Example

The indehiscent fruit of the plant remains closed until it decays.

Conversation

Have you ever seen an indehiscent fruit before?

Yeah, I think they stay closed instead of splitting open, right?

Exactly! It’s interesting how some fruits work that way.

I find it fascinating — nature has so many unique adaptations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Indehiscent is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "dehiscent" (from Latin "dehiscere", meaning to split open). The word describes a type of fruit that does not split open at maturity to release its seeds.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not splitting open' — 'in-' means not, and 'dehiscent' means to split open, which helps you remember that indehiscent refers to fruits that stay closed.

Visually Confused Words