How Do You Spell OBOVATE?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒbəvˌe͡ɪt] (IPA)

The word "obovate" is spelled with the letter "o" followed by "bovate." The "o" is pronounced as /əʊ/ in IPA phonetic transcription, which represents the diphthong sound of "oh," while "bovate" is pronounced as /ˈbəʊveɪt/, with the stress on the second syllable. "Bovate" is derived from the Latin word "bovis" meaning ox and refers to a particular size or measurement of land. "Obovate" is used to describe a shape that is ovate with the narrower end at the base, much like an inverted egg.

OBOVATE Meaning and Definition

1. The term "obovate" is an adjective used to describe the shape of an object, particularly the shape of leaves. Derived from the Latin word "obovatus," which means "egg-shaped," this term refers to a shape that is wider towards the apex and narrow towards the base, resembling the outline of an upside-down egg. It is characterized by a rounded or pointed tip and a broad base.

   When applied in botany, "obovate" is commonly used to describe certain types of leaves. Such leaves have a distinct base that is broader than the top, creating a gradual tapering effect along the length of the leaf. Obovate leaves can be found in various plant species, including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Examples of plants with obovate leaves include the Magnolia grandiflora and the Eucalyptus globulus.

   The obovate shape of leaves provides a functional advantage as it increases the surface area of the leaf, allowing for efficient photosynthesis and water absorption. This shape also aids in minimizing water loss by reducing the exposure of the leaf's surface area to sunlight and wind.

   In summary, "obovate" pertains to an inverted egg-like shape, usually used to describe leaves possessing a wider base and narrower tip. This term is commonly found in the field of botany, particularly when classifying the shapes of leaves.

2. In bot., ovate, but having the narrow end downwards.

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

Common Misspellings for OBOVATE

• ibovate
• kbovate
• lbovate
• pbovate
• ovovate
• onovate
• ohovate
• ogovate
• obivate
• obkvate
• oblvate
• obpvate
• ob0vate
• ob9vate
• obocate
• obobate
• obogate

Etymology of OBOVATE

The word "obovate" originates from the combination of two Latin words: "ob" and "ovatus".

1. "Ob" is a Latin prefix meaning "in front of" or "against".

2. "Ovatus" is the past participle of the Latin verb "ovare", which means "to shape like an egg".

When these two Latin terms are combined, "obovate" is formed, which describes a shape that resembles an inverted egg, where the narrow end is positioned towards the base or attachment point.