Definition

A type of plant cell that has thick walls and is often found in various shapes, providing support to the plant.

Example

Sclereids are important for the structural integrity of certain fruits and seeds.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a sclereid?

No, what is that?

It's a type of thick-walled plant cell that helps with support.

Interesting! I never knew plants had such unique cells.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Sclereid** → The word 'sclereid' is derived from the Greek root 'skleros' (σκληρός), meaning hard, and the suffix '-eid' (from Greek 'eidos', meaning form or shape). Sclereids are a type of plant cell that is characterized by its hard structure, contributing to the hardness of certain plant tissues.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for hard ('skleros') to remember that 'sclereid' refers to a hard type of plant cell.

Visually Confused Words