pollination

noun

pol·​li·​na·​tion ˌpä-lə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce pollination (audio)
: the transfer of pollen from an anther to the stigma in angiosperms or from the microsporangium to the micropyle in gymnosperms

Examples of pollination in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web For example, their evolution of new seed-dispersal and pollination mechanisms. Jamie Thompson, Discover Magazine, 15 Sep. 2023 But that high-value demand also creates a lurking danger for legitimate beekeepers, who might spend a whole year gearing up for the pollination season. Melissa Gomez, Los Angeles Times, 15 Feb. 2024 Some cultivars might be self-pollinating, but those are probably in the minority and likely still would benefit from a second, different cultivar as its pollination partner. Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 18 Jan. 2024 The Pollination Dance focuses on the role of the flower in the larger ecosystem, interacting with animals and insects to maintain the balance of life—in this case, through pollination. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 13 Dec. 2023 The collaboration is about celebrating the important role that pollinators play in ensuring biodiversity, but also to admire the beauty and mystery of the pollination act itself. Grace Banks, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2023 Sweet corn, for example, requires large blocks of plants in at least a 20x20-ft. square to ensure good pollination. Neil Sperry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 Jan. 2024 If the breakthrough designs continue improving, similar micro-robots could one day be deployed to monitor hard-to-reach or dangerous environments, help with miniature fabrication techniques and surgical procedures, and even aid artificial pollination efforts. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 18 Jan. 2024 Written for the home gardener and the more seasoned horticulturist alike, this book covers crop selection, pollination, roguing, and the processes of harvesting and storing seeds, honoring traditions, and encouraging a joy for understanding of the art and science of seed saving. Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 28 Dec. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'pollination.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pollination was in 1873

Dictionary Entries Near pollination

Cite this Entry

“Pollination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pollination. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

pollination

noun
pol·​li·​na·​tion ˌpäl-ə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce pollination (audio)
: the act or process of pollinating

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