Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

heterofertilization

noun
het·​ero·​fertilization | \ "+\

Definition of heterofertilization

: double fertilization in a seed plant (as maize) that results in phenotypically and probably genotypically different endosperm and embryo heterofertilization is considered to result when the polar nuclei and the egg fuse with male nuclei of differing genetic constitution

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

History and Etymology for heterofertilization

heter- + fertilization

Keep scrolling for more

Learn More about heterofertilization

Statistics for heterofertilization

Look-up Popularity

Comments on heterofertilization

What made you want to look up heterofertilization? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Show Comments  Hide Comments 

WORD OF THE DAY

commemorate

Listen to the pronounciation of commemorate

to mark by some ceremony or observation

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Test Your Vocabulary

Challenging Vocabulary Quiz Returns!

  • stylized drawing of woman pole vaulting across gap to get trophy
  • Which is a synonym of fuliginous?
Name That Thing

Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!

TAKE THE QUIZ
Syn City

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games