root hair

noun

: a filamentous extension of an epidermal cell near the tip of a rootlet that functions in absorption of water and minerals see seedling illustration

Examples of root hair in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Planting in Autumn Planting in autumn allows the peony to grow fine root hairs and be ready for spring growth without relying on energy stored in the root to survive. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Oct. 2024 Beyond that, an almost 2 1/2-pound carrot with long, scraggly root hairs sat across from a slightly heftier tomato with clusters of small, wart-like appendages. Emily Mesner, Anchorage Daily News, 3 Sep. 2023 This particular genus is small and slow, and bears a striking resemblance to plant root hairs. Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 13 July 2023 No bacteria, no root hairs! Jeff Lowenfels, Anchorage Daily News, 7 Apr. 2023 Along with the seven members, Siwa celebrated their spunk with rainbow hair tinsel and to-the-root hair gems. Chelsea Avila, Allure, 24 Aug. 2022 Once the tree roots reach the edge, the leading root hairs grow through but then are pinched by the fabric. Adrian Higgins, idahostatesman, 20 Dec. 2017 When your plant is transplanted, it can be stressed if there is damage to root hairs, as this will impede water absorption until the plant can replace them. Rita Perwich, sandiegouniontribune.com, 5 Oct. 2017

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of root hair was in 1841

Dictionary Entries Near root hair

Cite this Entry

“Root hair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/root%20hair. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

root hair

noun
: one of the threadlike outgrowths near the tip of a rootlet that function in absorption of water and minerals

More from Merriam-Webster on root hair

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