SEED COAT Meaning and
Definition
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The seed coat, also known as the testa, is the protective outer covering of a seed. It is a vital component of the seed that plays a critical role in safeguarding the enclosed embryo and providing suitable conditions for successful germination.
The seed coat serves as a protective barrier, shielding the inner structures of the seed from external threats such as pathogens, insects, and harsh environmental factors. It acts as a physical barrier, preventing water loss and helping to maintain the seed's moisture content, which is essential for the embryo's survival.
Additionally, the seed coat helps regulate seed dormancy and germination. It can have various thicknesses, textures, and colors, depending on the plant species. Some seed coats are hard and impermeable, while others are thin and permeable. In some cases, the seed coat may also have specialized structures or appendages that aid in dispersal, such as wings or hooks.
During germination, the seed coat plays a vital role in protecting the embryo from premature germination by inhibiting water and oxygen uptake. Once favorable conditions are met, the seed coat can be ruptured or softened, allowing the embryo to grow, develop roots, and emerge as a seedling.
Overall, the seed coat acts as a crucial shield and regulator of the seed's vital processes, ensuring the successful development and survival of the enclosed embryo.
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In bot., the aril or covering of a seed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SEED COAT
- aeed coat
- zeed coat
- xeed coat
- deed coat
- eeed coat
- weed coat
- swed coat
- ssed coat
- sded coat
- sred coat
- s4ed coat
- s3ed coat
- sewd coat
- sesd coat
- sedd coat
- serd coat
- se4d coat
- se3d coat
Etymology of SEED COAT
The word "seed" is derived from the Old English word "sed", which means "seed, semen, or grain". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "sediz" and the Proto-Indo-European root "seH-", meaning "to sow" or "to scatter".
The term "coat" originated from the Old French word "coite", which means "covering" or "outer garment". It ultimately comes from the Latin word "coactus", which translates to "collected" or "pressed together".
So, the etymology of "seed coat" combines the Old English concept of "seed" with the Old French/Latin concept of "coat", resulting in the name for the protective outer layer of a seed.
Similar spelling words for SEED COAT
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