Definition

To lay eggs, particularly using a specialized organ called an ovipositor.

Example

The female insect will oviposit in a safe location to protect her eggs.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know some insects oviposit in water?

Really? I had no idea they did that!

Yeah, it's fascinating how they choose their spots to lay eggs.

Nature is amazing, isn't it? It has so many surprises.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oviposit → It is formed from "ovi-" (from Latin "ovum", meaning egg) and "positus" (from Latin "ponere", meaning to place). The word describes the act of placing eggs, particularly in the context of animals that lay eggs.

Memory Tip

Think of 'egg' ('ovi-') being 'placed' ('positus') — that's why oviposit means to lay eggs.

Visually Confused Words