Definition

A disease affecting some plants, where the new leaves curl up and change color, often caused by a virus.

Example

The grapevines were affected by leafroll, causing the leaves to curl and lose their vibrant color.

Conversation

Have you heard about the leafroll virus affecting grapevines this year?

Yeah, it's really concerning for farmers.

I read that it can cause the leaves to curl and change color.

That's such a shame; it must affect the grape quality too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'leafroll' is formed from 'leaf' (from Old English 'leáf', meaning the foliage of a plant) and 'roll' (from Old French 'roler', meaning to turn over or curl). The term 'leafroll' refers to a condition where leaves curl or roll up, often due to disease or environmental factors.

Memory Tip

Think of 'leaf' as the green part of a plant and 'roll' as something that curls up. This helps you remember that 'leafroll' describes leaves that curl up.

Visually Confused Words