Set 189 · Study 1 / 5

Exit

paedomorphosis

noun/ˌpeɪdəˈmɔrfəsɪs/

the retention of juvenile features in the adult stage of an organism

The phenomenon of paedomorphosis in certain amphibians allows them to retain larval characteristics, such as gills, even in their adult form.

juvenilismneotenyjuvenile retention
word origin — from Greek 'paidos' meaning 'child' and 'morphosis' meaning 'formation' or 'shape'

Word Ultra — Set 189

Set 189 of Word Ultra covers 5 words: paedomorphosis, natimortality, boustrophedon, irenicon, anaglyph. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. paedomorphosis · noun/ˌpeɪdəˈmɔrfəsɪs/

    the retention of juvenile features in the adult stage of an organism

    The phenomenon of paedomorphosis in certain amphibians allows them to retain larval characteristics, such as gills, even in their adult form.

    Synonyms: juvenilism, neoteny, juvenile retention

    Origin: from Greek 'paidos' meaning 'child' and 'morphosis' meaning 'formation' or 'shape'

  2. natimortality · noun/ˌneɪtəˈmɔrtəlɪti/

    the condition of being stillborn; the death of a fetus at or after 20 weeks of gestation

    The researchers conducted a comprehensive study on the factors contributing to increased natimortality rates in certain demographics.

    Synonyms: stillbirth, fetal demise, stillborn

    Origin: From Latin 'nati-' meaning 'born' and 'mortalitas' meaning 'mortality'.

  3. boustrophedon · noun/ˌbaʊstrəˈfiːdən/

    a type of writing in which alternate lines are written in opposite directions

    The ancient manuscript was fascinating because it was written in boustrophedon, with the lines alternating direction to create a unique reading experience.

    Synonyms: none

    Origin: from Greek 'bous' meaning 'ox' and 'strophe' meaning 'turn'

  4. irenicon · noun/aɪˈrɛnɪkɑn/

    a statement or proposal aimed at promoting peace or reconciliation

    The irenicon proposed by the mediator was aimed at bridging the gap between the conflicting parties.

    Synonyms: reconciliation, peace proposal, peacemaking

    Origin: The term 'irenicon' originates from the Greek word 'irenikos,' meaning 'peaceful,' which is derived from 'eirēnē,' meaning 'peace.'

  5. anaglyph · noun/ˈænəˌɡlɪf/

    a three-dimensional image created by combining two superimposed images in different colors that can be viewed through colored glasses

    The anaglyph image created by artists at the gallery popped to life when viewed through red and blue glasses.

    Synonyms: stereogram, 3D image, hologram

    Origin: The word 'anaglyph' comes from the Greek 'anaglyphos', meaning 'carved in relief.'