Definition

A type of plant tissue that provides support and protection, made up of cells with thick, often hard walls.

Example

Sclerenchyma helps strengthen the stems of plants, allowing them to stand upright.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of sclerenchyma?

I think so, isn't it related to plant structure?

Yeah, it’s a type of tissue that provides support to plants.

That's really interesting! I love learning about plant biology.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sclerenchyma → It is formed from "scleros" (σκληρός) (meaning hard) and "enchyma" (ἔγχυμα) (meaning infusion or juice). The word refers to a type of plant tissue that provides structural support and is characterized by its hardness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hard' ('scleros') tissue in plants that provides support, which is what sclerenchyma is all about.

Visually Confused Words