How Do You Spell DIMORPHISM?

Pronunciation: [dˈɪmɔːfˌɪzəm] (IPA)

Dimorphism is a term indicating a biological phenomenon of the existence of two distinct physical forms, such as sexual or seasonal. The word is spelled as /daɪˈmɔːfɪzəm/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first two letters, "di," mean "two," and "morphism" comes from the Greek word "morphē," which means "form" or "shape." The pronunciation of the word is characterized by the long "i" sound in the first syllable, followed by the stressed "o" sound in the second syllable.

DIMORPHISM Meaning and Definition

1. Dimorphism is a term used in biology to describe the existence of two distinct forms or morphs within a single species. It refers to the presence of two different physical characteristics or traits among individuals of the same species, usually between males and females.

   In many animal species, sexual dimorphism is prevalent, wherein males and females display different external characteristics such as size, color, or shape. For instance, in many bird species, males tend to exhibit vibrant plumage or elaborate mating displays to attract females, while females have duller or more camouflaged colors to aid in nesting or protecting their young.

   Dimorphism can also be found in plants, where it refers to the presence of different forms or structures within a species. This can manifest as variations in flower size or shape, leaf structure, or even growth habit between individuals.

   The occurrence of dimorphism is often attributed to sexual selection, where individuals develop traits that enhance their ability to compete for mates or ensure successful reproduction. It can also result from environmental factors or the need for specific adaptations.

   This phenomenon plays a significant role in the diversity and evolution of species, as it can lead to specialized roles and behaviors among different sexes or forms. By studying dimorphism, scientists gain valuable insights into the reproductive strategies and ecological interactions of various organisms.

2. Existing in two forms; noting a difference of crystallization exhibited by the same substance, or a difference in form or outward appearance between individuals of the same species but of opposite sex.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. The property of certain salts to assume two different forms of crystallisation.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for DIMORPHISM

• dimorphic
• simorphism
• ximorphism
• cimorphism
• fimorphism
• rimorphism
• eimorphism
• dumorphism
• djmorphism
• dkmorphism
• domorphism
• d9morphism
• d8morphism
• dinorphism
• dikorphism
• dijorphism
• dimirphism
• dimkrphism
• dimlrphism
• dimprphism
• dimorphus
• dimorphos
• dimorphes
• dismorphism
• Gynadormorphism
• Isadimorphism
• Demorphism
• Dimorphisme
• Dimonorphism
• homorphism

Etymology of DIMORPHISM

The word "dimorphism" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "di", meaning "two", and "morphe", meaning "form". Therefore, the literal meaning of "dimorphism" is "two forms", which reflects its usage in biology to describe the existence of two distinct forms of a species, particularly with regard to sexual differences.

Similar spelling words for DIMORPHISM

• dimorphic,
• Dimorphous,
• dimorphotheca.

Plural form of DIMORPHISM is DIMORPHISMS