aeroponics

noun, plural in form but singular in construction

aero·​pon·​ics ¦er-ō-¦pä-niks 

: the growing of plants by suspending their roots in the air and spraying them with nutrient solutions

Hydroponics allows us to grow plants in a water-and-nutrient solution, while aeroponics grows them in a nutrient-laden mist.

—Dickson D. Despommier, New York Times, 24 Apr. 2009

aeroponic

¦er-ō-¦pä-nik 

adjective

Tomatoes take especially well to aeroponic growing.

—Johnathan L. Wright, Reno Gazette-Journal, 20 Aug. 2008

aeroponic technology

aeroponically

¦er-ō-¦pä-ni-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Fog can actually carry dissolved nutrients for growing plants aeroponically, suspended in the air, with their clean roots dangling in the fog.

—Marshall Ingwerson, Christian Science Monitor, 1 Mar. 1985

Word History

Etymology

aero- + (hydro)ponics

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now