self-pollination

/'self,pɔli'neiʃn/

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Explanation of "Self-Pollination"

Definition:
The word "self-pollination" refers to the process in which a flower fertilizes itself. This happens when pollen (the tiny grains that carry male plant cells) from the anthers (the part of the flower that produces pollen) moves to the stigma (the part that receives pollen) of the same flower. This allows the flower to produce seeds without needing pollen from another flower.

Usage Instructions:

• Part of Speech: Noun
• How to Use: You can use "self-pollination" when discussing plants, gardening, or biology. It’s often used in the context of how certain plants reproduce.

Example Sentence:

“The tomato plant is known for its ability to undergo self-pollination, which helps it produce fruit even in isolated conditions.”

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced discussions, "self-pollination" can be contrasted with "cross-pollination," where pollen from one flower fertilizes another flower. This can be important in understanding plant breeding and genetics.

Word Variants:

• Self-pollinate (verb): To carry out the act of self-pollination.
  • Example: "Some plants can self-pollinate, ensuring that they can reproduce even without nearby plants."

Different Meanings:

In a broader sense, "self-pollination" can also be used metaphorically to describe situations where someone relies on their own resources or efforts to succeed, without external help.

Synonyms:

• Self-fertilization: This is another term that refers to the same process as self-pollination, especially in the context of fertilization in plants.
• Autogamy: A more technical term used in botany that specifically refers to self-fertilization.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "self-pollination" itself doesn’t have idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to it, the concept of relying on oneself can relate to phrases like: - “Pull yourself up by your bootstraps” - This means to improve your situation by your own efforts. - “Go it alone” - To do something without help from others.

Summary:

"Self-pollination" is an important concept in botany, reflecting how some plants can reproduce independently.

Academic

Noun

1. fertilization by transfer of pollen from the anthers to the stigma of the same flower