spore
UK: spɔː | US: spɔːr
n. a reproductive cell produced by some plants, fungi, and microorganisms, capable of developing into a new individual without fusion with another cell.
n. (figuratively) a dormant or latent form of something, often with potential for renewal or growth.
spore = spor<seed> + e (silent)
- spor<seed>: From Greek spora (σπορά), meaning "seed" or "sowing."
- e: A silent vowel often retained in English spelling but not pronounced.
Etymology Origin:
The word "spore" traces back to Greek spora (σπορά), reflecting its biological function as a tiny, seed-like unit of reproduction. It entered scientific Latin as spora and was adopted into English in the 19th century to describe microscopic reproductive cells in plants and fungi. The silent "e" is a common feature in English, preserving the word's historical spelling while simplifying pronunciation.
Ferns reproduce by releasing spores into the air.
Under a microscope, the fungal spores appeared as tiny, spherical structures.
The scientist studied how spores survive extreme conditions.
In literature, the idea of a "spore" often symbolizes hidden potential.
The mold spread rapidly as its spores dispersed through the ventilation system.