Ombrophore is a rarely used word in English, meaning "rain carrier". It is derived from Greek roots, where "ombros" means rain and "phoros" means carrier. The correct spelling of ombrophore according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) would be /ɒm.brə.fɔː(r)/. The first syllable is pronounced with the open back rounded vowel (IPA symbol: ɒ), followed by a consonant cluster (/m.br/) representing the two Greek roots. The final syllable ends with the fronted open-mid vowel (IPA symbol: ɔː) and the voiced alveolar fricative (IPA symbol: r).
The word "ombrophore" refers to a specialized structure found in certain plants that are adapted to thrive in areas receiving abundant rainfall or high humidity. It is derived from the Greek words "ombros" meaning rain and "phorein" meaning to bear or carry. Ombrophores are typically observed in plants belonging to rainforests, cloud forests, or other moist habitats.
The primary function of ombrophores is to facilitate the collection and retention of moisture from rainfall or condensation. These structures often appear as elongated, slender appendages or extensions on leaves, stems, or even roots. They may possess adaptations such as grooves, raised surfaces, or specialized hairs that aid in water collection.
By efficiently capturing and retaining water, ombrophores enable the plant to mitigate the potential drawbacks of living in consistently wet environments. The collected moisture is absorbed by the plant through openings called stomata on the ombrophores, promoting growth, nutrient absorption, and photosynthesis. Ombrophores can also help prevent excess water from causing damage or rotting by channeling it away from certain parts of the plant.
The development and presence of ombrophores in a plant species are considered evolutionary adaptations to ensure successful survival and reproduction in rain or moisture-rich habitats. These structures play a crucial role in the water balance and overall health of the plant, enabling it to thrive in environments where water availability is typically abundant.
A portable apparatus for giving a shower bath, especially one of carbonated water.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.