How Do You Spell ENDOSPERM?

Pronunciation: [ˈɛndə͡ʊspˌɜːm] (IPA)

Endosperm is a botanical term that refers to the nutritive tissue found in most seeds. The word is spelled phonetically as /ˈɛndəˌspɜrm/, with the "en" pronounced as "ehn," the "do" as "duh," and the "sp" as "spuh." The emphasis is on the second syllable, "sperm." The spelling of the word reflects the Greek roots of "endo," meaning "inside," and "sperm," meaning "seed." Understanding the IPA phonetic transcription can help readers with the proper pronunciation of this scientific term.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling words
Plural
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ENDOSPERM Meaning and Definition

  1. Endosperm is a specialized nutritive tissue found in the seeds of flowering plants. It is formed during the process of double fertilization, where one sperm fertilizes the egg cell to form the embryo, while the other sperm fuses with the central cell to form the endosperm. The endosperm serves as a source of nourishment for the developing embryo.

    The endosperm is typically triploid, containing three sets of chromosomes, and is stored in the seed’s starchy or protein-rich tissue. This tissue provides essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids to the growing embryo, ensuring its development and growth until it can become self-sustaining. In some plant species, the endosperm may also function as a nutrient reserve for the germinating seedling.

    The composition of the endosperm can vary depending on the plant species. For instance, in corn or wheat, the endosperm contains a high percentage of starch, making it suitable for food uses such as flour production. In other plants, such as coconut, the endosperm is filled with a liquid rich in sugars and fats, which provides vital nutrients for seed germination.

    Overall, endosperm plays a crucial role in seed development and germination, ensuring that the embryo has the necessary energy and nutrients to grow into a healthy plant.

  2. The albumin of a seed, serving for the nutrition of the embryo.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. In bot., albumen formed within the embryo-sac.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ENDOSPERM

Etymology of ENDOSPERM

The word "endosperm" has its origins in the combination of two Greek words: "endo" meaning "within" and "sperma" meaning "seed". The "endosperm" is the nutritive tissue that surrounds the embryo within a seed, providing essential nutrients for its growth and development.

Similar spelling words for ENDOSPERM

Plural form of ENDOSPERM is ENDOSPERMS

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Correct spelling for endosperm
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