plant
UK: plɑːnt | US: plænt
n. a living organism that typically synthesizes its food from inorganic substances (e.g., trees, flowers)
n. a factory or industrial facility
vt. to place (a seed, plant, or idea) in the ground or a position to grow
The word "plant" traces back to Latin plantare, meaning "to fix in the ground" or "to plant," derived from planta (sole of the foot, shoot for propagation). This reflects the action of pressing seeds or cuttings into soil. Over time, it expanded to denote both the action (verb) and the organism itself (noun). The industrial sense ("factory") emerged in the 18th century, metaphorically linking machinery "rooted" in place to growing vegetation.
She watered the plant every morning to help it grow.
The automotive plant employs over 2,000 workers.
Farmers plant wheat in the autumn for a summer harvest.
The idea was planted in his mind during the lecture.
This species of plant thrives in tropical climates.