hermaphrodite

/hə:'mæfrədait/

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Word: Hermaphrodite

Part of Speech: Noun and Adjective

Simple Definition: The word "hermaphrodite" refers to a living being (like an animal or a plant) that has both male and female reproductive organs or characteristics. This means that they can produce both male and female reproductive cells.

Usage Instructions:

• As a noun, it describes an individual that has both male and female sexual characteristics.
• As an adjective, it describes the condition of having both male and female reproductive parts.

Example Sentences:

• Noun: "Some species of snails are hermaphrodites, meaning they can mate with any other snail."
• Adjective: "The hermaphrodite plant can produce seeds that are either male or female."

Advanced Usage:

In biology, the term "hermaphrodite" can be used in discussions about reproduction and genetics. It is often found in studies related to evolution and biodiversity.

Word Variants:

• Hermaphroditic (adjective): Describing something that has both male and female reproductive organs.
  • Example: "The hermaphroditic characteristics of certain flowers allow them to self-pollinate."
• Hermaphroditism (noun): The condition of being a hermaphrodite.
  • Example: "Hermaphroditism is a fascinating topic in the study of certain animal species."

Different Meanings:

While "hermaphrodite" primarily refers to biological characteristics, it can also be used metaphorically in literature or discussions to describe something that has mixed or dual characteristics.

Synonyms:

• Androgynous (more commonly used for human characteristics that are not strictly male or female)
• Bisexual (in a broader sense, but typically used for describing sexual orientation rather than biological characteristics)

Related Terms:

• Intersex: A term often used in humans and animals that describes individuals with reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn’t fit typical definitions of male or female.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no well-known idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "hermaphrodite," but discussions about gender and biology may involve phrases like "breaking the mold" or "defying expectations" when referring to non-binary or unconventional characteristics.

Important Note:

When discussing hermaphroditism in humans, it is important to use respectful and accurate language. The term "intersex" is more commonly accepted and preferred in medical and social contexts for individuals who do not fit typical definitions of male or female at birth.

Conclusion:

Understanding the term "hermaphrodite" is important in both biological studies and discussions about gender.

Academic

Adjective

1. of animal or plant; having both male female reproductive organs

Noun

1. one having both male and female sexual characteristics and organs; at birth an unambiguous assignment of male or female cannot be made

Synonyms

• hermaphroditic
• intersex
• gynandromorph
• androgyne
• epicene
• epicene person