Zea mays
Definition
Noun 1. A tall annual cereal grass: A plant species (Zea mays) cultivated for its large ears (cobs) which bear kernels (seeds). It is a major cereal crop. 2. The principal cereal of the Americas: The species widely grown in many varieties, forming a staple food in Mexico, Central America, and South America since ancient, pre-Columbian times.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The field was planted entirely with Zea mays.
- Archaeological evidence shows Zea mays was domesticated thousands of years ago.
- The genetic diversity of Zea mays is studied to improve crop yields.
Advanced Usage
- Scientific/Botanical Context: The term is primarily used in formal, scientific, agricultural, or botanical contexts to specify the exact species, distinguishing it from its common name, "corn" or "maize."
- The study focused on the drought resistance of Zea mays.
- Historical/Anthropological Context: Used when discussing the origins, domestication, and historical significance of the crop.
- The spread of Zea mays throughout the Americas transformed ancient societies.
Variants and Related Words
- Maize (n): The most common term for this plant, especially in British English and international scientific/commercial contexts.
- Corn (n): The common term for this plant in American and Canadian English.
- Indian corn (n): A term, now less common, historically used to refer to maize.
- Sweet corn (n): A variety of maize grown for human consumption as a vegetable.
- Field corn (n): A variety of maize grown primarily for animal feed or industrial uses.
Synonyms
- Maize
- Corn (primarily North American usage)
Related Phrases and Terms
- Corn cob / Maize cob: The central core of the ear on which the kernels grow.
- Kernel of corn / Maize kernel: An individual seed or grain of the plant.
- Cornfield / Maize field: A field where the crop is grown.
Noun
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tall annual cereal grass bearing kernels on large ears: widely cultivated in America in many varieties; the principal cereal in Mexico and Central and South America since pre-Columbian times
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