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.
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.