Decumbent

/dɪˈkʌmbənt/ adjective

Definition

Lying down, reclining, or in a horizontal position; in botany, describing a plant stem that lies along the ground.

Etymology

From Latin decumbens, present participle of decumbere (to lie down). Both medical and botanical terminology use this adjective to describe horizontal or reclining positions.

Kelly Says

Biologists call a plant 'decumbent' when it lies flat along the ground like it's taking a nap—creeping ivy and ground-hugging plants use this strategy to avoid being eaten by grazing animals.

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