Declinate

/ˈdɛklɪneɪt/ verb

Definition

To decline or bend downward; to turn away or refuse something.

Etymology

From Latin declinatus, past participle of declinare meaning 'to turn aside, bend, or decline.' This is a more formal or archaic form of the verb 'decline.'

Kelly Says

This is an old-fashioned word rarely used anymore, but you see it preserved in scientific names of plants that 'declinate' or bend downward—like some species' leaves that turn down to avoid harsh sunlight.

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