fissiparous, eirenic, penniform, pachydermal, peduncular: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Word Ultra set 68. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. fissiparous · adjective/fɪsˈɪp.ər.əs/

   producing offsprings by fission or splitting

   The fissiparous nature of certain bacteria allows them to reproduce rapidly in favorable conditions, leading to significant population growth.

   Synonyms: split, reproductive, dividing

   Origin: From Latin 'fissiparous', derived from 'fissio' meaning 'to split' and 'parere' meaning 'to bring forth'.

2. eirenic · adjective/aɪˈrɛnɪk/

   promoting peace and reconciliation

   Her eirenic approach to conflict resolution made her the ideal mediator in the negotiations.

   Synonyms: peaceful, conciliatory, pacific

   Origin: from Greek 'eirēnikos', meaning peaceful, from 'eirēnē', meaning peace.

3. penniform · adjective/ˈpɛnɪfɔrm/

   having a featherlike or pen-shaped structure

   The penniform structure of the bird's wing allowed for efficient flight, resembling the delicate arrangement of feathers.

   Synonyms: featherlike, pen-shaped, plume-like

   Origin: The word 'penniform' comes from the Latin 'penna' meaning 'feather' and 'formis' meaning 'having the form of'.

4. pachydermal · adjective/ˌpæk.ɪˈdɜr.məl/

   relating to or resembling thick-skinned animals such as elephants and rhinoceroses

   The pachydermal skin of the elephant plays a crucial role in protecting it from harsh environmental conditions.

   Synonyms: thick-skinned, insensitive, unresponsive

   Origin: From the Greek 'pachydermos', meaning 'thick-skinned' (from 'pachys' meaning 'thick' and 'derma' meaning 'skin')

5. peduncular · adjective/pɪˈdʌŋkjələr/

   relating to a peduncle or stalk

   The peduncular structure of the plant allowed it to support large flowers, making it more attractive to pollinators.

   Synonyms: stalk-like, stalked, pedicled

   Origin: From Latin 'pedunculus' meaning 'little stem', derived from 'pes, pedis' meaning 'foot'.