Definition

A chemical released by an animal that affects the behavior or development of others in the same species, often used to attract mates.

Example

The female moth releases a pheromone to attract male moths from a distance.

Conversation

Did you know that pheromones play a big role in animal behavior?

Really? I always thought they were just for attracting mates.

Yeah, they actually influence a lot of behaviors in the same species.

That's fascinating! Nature has so many cool ways to communicate.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pheromone → It is formed from "phero" (from Greek "pherein", meaning to carry or to transfer) and "mone" (from Greek "hormone", meaning to excite or stimulate). The word "pheromone" refers to a chemical substance that carries a signal to influence the behavior of others, particularly in the context of attraction or communication.

Memory Tip

Think of 'carrying' ('phero') a signal that 'excites' ('mone') others — that's why pheromones influence behavior.

Visually Confused Words