fungal

UK: ˈfʌŋɡəl | US: ˈfʌŋɡəl

Definition

  1. adj. relating to or caused by fungi

  2. adj. resembling fungi in structure or growth

Structure
fung <fungus>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

fungal = fung<fungus> + al<adjective suffix>

  • fung (from Latin fungus, meaning "mushroom, fungus")
  • al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, meaning "pertaining to")

Etymology Origin:
The word fungal originates from Latin fungus (mushroom/fungus) combined with the adjectival suffix -al, which denotes relation or pertaining to. The term reflects the scientific classification of organisms and their characteristics, evolving from the concrete concept of "fungus" to the broader descriptive adjective "fungal."

Examples

  1. The doctor prescribed medication to treat the fungal infection.

  2. Fungal growth thrives in damp environments.

  3. The lab identified the substance as a fungal spore.

  4. She studied fungal biology for her research project.

  5. The old bread had a distinct fungal odor.