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pleomorphism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌpliːəˈmɔːfɪzəm/

KK: /ˈplē-ə-ˌmȯr-ˌfiz-əm/

noun
Definition

The presence of different forms or shapes in organisms or substances during their life cycle or structure.


Example

In biology, pleomorphism can be observed in certain bacteria that can change their shape depending on environmental conditions.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of pleomorphism in biology?
Sloth B
Yeah, isn't it about different forms that organisms can take during their life cycle?
Sloth A
Exactly! It’s fascinating how some plants can show such variety.
Sloth B
I know, right? Nature is full of surprises!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
polymorphism
variation
diversity
Antonyms
uniformity
stability
sameness
Root Explanation

Pleomorphism → It is formed from "pleo-" (from Greek "pleion", meaning more or many) and "morphē" (meaning form or shape). The word describes the ability of some organisms to exist in multiple forms or shapes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('pleo-') forms ('morphē') to remember that pleomorphism refers to the ability to take on various shapes.

Visually Confused Words
plesiomorphism
pedomorphism
paedomorphism
neomorphism
exomorphism
pseudomorphism
allelomorphism
theomorphism
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