Definition

Describing a growth pattern where something grows at an angle that is not straight up, often leaning to the side or almost horizontally.

Example

The plagiotropic branches of the tree spread out widely, creating a unique shape.

Conversation

Have you seen how some plants grow at an angle?

Yeah, I think they are called plagiotropic plants.

That's interesting! I never knew there was a term for that.

It makes sense since they adapt to their surroundings.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Plagiotropic → It is formed from "plagio-" (from Greek "plagios", meaning oblique or slanting) and "tropic" (from Greek "tropos", meaning turn or change). The word describes growth or movement that is slanted or oblique in direction, particularly in relation to light or gravity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'slanting' ('plagio-') and 'turning' ('tropic') to remember that 'plagiotropic' refers to growth that occurs in a slanted direction.

Visually Confused Words