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phreatophyte

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /frɪˈɛtəˌfaɪt/

KK: /frɪˈætəˌfaɪt/

noun
Definition

A type of plant that has deep roots and gets its water from underground sources, like the water table.


Example

The phreatophyte thrives in arid regions where it can access groundwater.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of a phreatophyte?
Sloth B
No, what is that?
Sloth A
It's a plant that gets its water from the water table, usually deep-rooted ones.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I love learning about different plants.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
xerophyte
halophyte
hydrophyte
Antonyms
ephemeral
annual
transient
Root Explanation

Phreatophyte is formed from "phreato-" (from Greek "phreatos", meaning well or spring) and "phyte" (from Greek "phyton", meaning plant). The word refers to a plant that has roots extending down to the water table, drawing moisture from underground sources such as wells or springs.

Memory Tip

Think of 'phreato-' as relating to a 'well' or 'spring', and 'phyte' as a 'plant'. This helps you remember that a phreatophyte is a plant that draws water from underground sources.

Visually Confused Words
hematophyte
protophyte
spermatophyte
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