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Dormancy - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Dormancy is a state of temporary inactivity or rest, often seen in plants, animals, or seeds, where metabolic processes slow down to survive unfavorable conditions until better circumstances return.

dormancy

/ˈdɔːrmənsi/ /ˈdɔːmənsi/

Definition:

A state of inactivity or suspended biological activity, often temporary.

Synonyms:

inactivity, quiescence, hibernation, latency

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

activity, wakefulness

Common Collocations:

winter dormancy, seed dormancy, break dormancy, prolonged dormancy

Derivatives:

dormant, dormantly

Usage Tips:

Use "dormancy" to describe a pause in growth or activity, especially in plants or animals.

Common Phrases:

in a state of dormancy, break out of dormancy, emerge from dormancy

Etymology:

From Latin "dormire" (to sleep), via French "dormant."

Examples:

  • 1. The seeds remain in dormancy until spring arrives.
  • 2. Bears enter dormancy during the winter months.
  • 3. The volcano's dormancy lasted for centuries before erupting again.
  • 4. Some plants require cold temperatures to break dormancy.

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