: a tropism (as in plant roots) in which water or water vapor is the orienting factor

Word History

Etymology

probably borrowed from German Hydrotropismus, from hydro- hydro- + -tropismus -tropism

First Known Use

circa 1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hydrotropism was circa 1882

Dictionary Entries Near hydrotropism

Cite this Entry

“Hydrotropism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hydrotropism. Accessed 12 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

hydrotropism

noun
: a tropism (as in plant roots) in which water or water vapor causes the movement

Medical Definition

: a tropism in which water or water vapor is the orienting factor

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