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photophobic

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˌfoʊtəˈfoʊbɪk//

KK: /foʊtəˈfoʊbɪk/

adjective
Definition

Describing something that avoids light or is sensitive to light.


Example

Some plants are photophobic and thrive in dark environments.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that some plants are actually photophobic?
Sloth B
Really? I didn't know plants could avoid light like that.
Sloth A
Yeah, they thrive better in the dark or low light conditions.
Sloth B
That's fascinating! I should look into getting some for my apartment.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
light-averse
shadow-loving
nocturnal
Antonyms
light-loving
illuminated
sunny
Root Explanation

Photophobic → It is formed from "photo-" (from Greek "phōs", meaning light) and "-phobic" (from Greek "phobos", meaning fear). The word describes a condition of having a fear or aversion to light.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light' ('photo-') and 'fear' ('-phobic') to remember that photophobic means having a fear of light.

Visually Confused Words
phonophoric
phonophobia
phobophobia
pantophobic
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