The occurrence of two distinct forms of the same plant structure, such as leaves, flowers, or fruits, within a single species or individual plant. This can be related to sex, age, season, or environmental conditions.
From Greek 'di-' meaning 'two' and 'morphe' meaning 'form' or 'shape.' The biological term was established in the mid-19th century as scientists began recognizing and categorizing the various ways organisms could express multiple forms.
Dimorphism is nature's way of having the best of both worlds! Some plants produce 'sun leaves' that are thick and waxy for bright conditions and 'shade leaves' that are thin and broad for low light - it's like having prescription sunglasses and reading glasses built right in.
Dimorphism—especially sexual dimorphism—has been misused in pseudoscientific arguments to justify gender hierarchies. 19th–20th century biology misinterpreted morphological differences as evidence of intellectual or social ranking.
Use 'dimorphism' strictly in biological context; specify type (sexual, size, color). Avoid extending to behavior or capability without evidence.
["morphological variation","phenotypic difference"]
Correcting dimorphism misuse required women scientists (e.g., primatologists studying actual behavioral variation) to overturn ideologically-driven interpretations.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.