lichen
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈlaɪ.kən/
KK: /ˈlaɪkən/
noun
Definition
A type of organism that is made up of a fungus and an alga living together in a close relationship, often found on rocks or tree trunks, and can appear crusty or branching.
Example
The lichen on the old tree trunk was a beautiful shade of green and gray.
Conversation
Have you ever seen lichen growing on tree trunks?
Yeah, I noticed that when I went hiking last weekend!
It's amazing how it forms such unique patterns, isn't it?
Absolutely! It really adds character to the scenery.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fungus
moss
alga
Antonyms
disease
health
purity
transitive verb
Definition
A type of organism that consists of a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium living together in a symbiotic relationship, often found on rocks, trees, and soil.
Example
The rocks were covered in bright green lichen.
Tense Forms
Past: lichened
Past Participle: lichened
Conversation
Did you notice how the rocks are starting to lichen over there?
Yeah, it looks really interesting with all those colors!
I love how nature can lichen surfaces so beautifully.
Root Explanation
Lichen → The word 'lichen' comes from the Greek 'lichenos' (meaning fungus or lichen), which refers to a type of organism that is a symbiotic association between a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium. The term describes these unique life forms that grow in various environments, often resembling moss or crust on surfaces.
Memory Tip
Think of the Greek word 'lichenos' which means fungus — this helps you remember that lichen is a unique organism formed from a partnership between a fungus and an alga.
Visually Confused Words
flitchen
richen
cliche
lien
chen