Seed

Definition

The term "seed" refers to the reproductive structure of a plant that contains the embryo, capable of developing into a new plant. It can also metaphorically refer to the origin or starting point of something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /siːd/
• Respelling: SEED

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /siːd/
• Respelling: SEED

Etymology

The word "seed" originates from the Old English "sǣd," meaning "something sown," derived from Proto-Germanic "sædi" and Proto-Indo-European "sē-," meaning "to sow." It has been used in English since before the 12th century to describe the reproductive structures of plants.

Derivatives

• Seeding (noun/verb)
• Seeder (noun)
• Seedless (adjective)
• Seedling (noun)
• Reseed (verb)

Synonyms

• Kernel
• Grain
• Sprout

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "seed" is commonly used in botany, agriculture, and metaphorical contexts. For example, "Farmers sowed seeds for the next harvest," or "The idea was the seed of a new movement."

Related Terms

• Sow: To plant seeds by scattering them on the soil.
• Sprout: The growth of a plant from a seed.
• Fertilize: To provide nutrients to soil or plants to aid growth.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The reproductive structure of a flowering plant containing an embryo:
  • Example: "Each fruit contains multiple seeds."
• The origin or starting point of an idea or process:
  • Example: "The seed of innovation was planted in their discussion."
• A participant in a tournament ranked based on ability:
  • Example: "The team was the number one seed in the competition."

Verb

• To plant or scatter seeds:
  • Example: "The farmer seeded the field with wheat."
• To remove seeds from a fruit or vegetable:
  • Example: "She seeded the peppers before adding them to the dish."
• To rank participants in a tournament:
  • Example: "Players were seeded based on their performance in prior matches."