Endospermic

/ˌɛndoʊˈspɜrmɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or containing endosperm, the nutritious tissue inside seeds that feeds the developing plant embryo.

Etymology

From endo- (within) + spermic (related to seed), derived from Greek sperma (seed). The term emerged in 19th-century botany to describe the internal seed structures visible under microscopes.

Kelly Says

Endospermic seeds are like packed lunches for baby plants—rice, corn, and wheat are all endospermic, which is why they're so nutritious for humans too. We're basically eating plant baby food when we eat these grains!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.