How Do You Spell TENDRIL?

Pronunciation: [tˈɛndɹə͡l] (IPA)

Tendril is a fascinating word with an intriguing spelling. The word is pronounced as /ˈtɛn.drəl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It consists of the consonant cluster "ndr" which can be challenging to pronounce for some people. The vowel combination of "e-i" represents the "ɛ" sound, which is not always intuitive. The final syllable "il" is pronounced with a silent "l", making it easy to misspell. Despite its tricky spelling, tendril is a delightful word to say and embodies the essence of graceful, curling vines.

TENDRIL Meaning and Definition

1. A tendril is a thin, elongated, and flexible structure that is commonly found in plants, vines, and climbers. It is an appendage or specialized organ that serves a specific purpose. Tendrils are usually slender and coilable, allowing them to function as a support or means of attachment for the plant. They are often formed by the modification of certain plant organs, such as leaves or stems.

   Typically, tendrils possess a coiling or twisting nature, enabling them to wrap around nearby objects such as trellises, branches, or other plants. This coiling behavior provides stability and anchorage, allowing the plant to climb or grow vertically with the help of external support.

   Tendrils also play a vital role in the reproductive process of certain plants. In these cases, they may exhibit specialized structures or characteristic hooks at the tip which aid in grasping or coiling around objects. This mechanism allows the tendrils to facilitate contact and assist in the process of pollination or seed dispersal, contributing to the successful reproduction and survival of the plant species.

   Tendrils are diverse in their forms, sizes, and functions across plant species. They are a remarkable adaptation that has evolved as an essential tool for plants to enhance their growth, survival, and reproductive strategies.

2. • Clasping; climbing as a tendril.

   • The twisting-claws of a climbing plant by which it attaches itself to an object for support.

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

Common Misspellings for TENDRIL

• tenderily
• bendryl
• tendriols
• benidril
• tendrals
• tendrills
• tendrels
• tendre
• mendril
• tandaril
• tendreac
• tendrom
• tenosal
• tenorial
• endoril
• Tandyril
• mendral
• Trundril
• Tenvril
• Tenvrel
• Tandsil
• Tendrae
• tendrilal
• Tendria

Etymology of TENDRIL

The word "tendril" comes from the Old French word "tendron" which referred to a young shoot or sprout. This word, in turn, was derived from the Latin word "tener" meaning "tender" or "soft". The use of "tendril" to specifically refer to a slender, coiling appendage of a plant dates back to the early 17th century.

Similar spelling words for TENDRIL

• tenderloin,
• tendrac,
• tenderize,
• tenderise,
• tender,
• tenderly.

Plural form of TENDRIL is TENDRILS