Definition

A layer of plants, including trees and shrubs, that grows beneath the main canopy of a forest and above the ground cover.

Example

The understory of the forest is rich with ferns and young trees.

Conversation

Have you ever explored the understory of a forest?

No, I haven’t, but it sounds really interesting!

It's amazing how much life there is in the understory that you can't see from above.

I bet there are some unique plants and animals down there!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Understory → It is formed from "under" (from Old English "under", meaning beneath or below) and "story" (from Latin "storia", meaning a layer or level). The word "understory" refers to the layer of vegetation beneath the main canopy of a forest, indicating its position below the upper layers.

Memory Tip

Think of something that grows 'beneath' ('under') the main layers ('story') of a forest — that's what understory means.

Visually Confused Words