transpiration

noun

tran·​spi·​ra·​tion ˌtran(t)s-pə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce transpiration (audio)
: the act or process or an instance of transpiring
especially : the passage of watery vapor from a living body (as of a plant) through a membrane or pores
transpirational adjective

Examples of transpiration in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Share [Findings] The decreasing transpiration of plants, a result of rising carbon dioxide levels, was partly to blame for recent heat waves in northern latitudes. Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024 An alliance of public transpiration systems called NW Connector also offers routes from Portland or other locations on the Oregon Coast including Newport and Lincoln City to Cannon Beach. Molly Allen, Travel + Leisure, 21 July 2024 During this time, transpiration (the process by which water evaporates from the plant, particularly through the leaves) occurs at a greater rate thanks to brighter sunlight and warmer temperatures. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 19 July 2024 Some water is also taken up by plants before evaporating into the atmosphere, a process known as transpiration. Denise Chow, NBC News, 25 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for transpiration 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'transpiration.' 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

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of transpiration was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near transpiration

Cite this Entry

“Transpiration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transpiration. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

transpiration

noun
tran·​spi·​ra·​tion tran(t)s-pə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce transpiration (audio)
: the process by which plants give off water vapor through the stomata in their leaves

Medical Definition

transpiration

noun
tran·​spi·​ra·​tion tran(t)s-pə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce transpiration (audio)
: the passage of watery vapor from a living body through a membrane or pores
transpirational adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on transpiration

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