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SINCE 1828
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root hair

noun
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Definition of root hair

: a filamentous extension of an epidermal cell near the tip of a rootlet that functions in absorption of water and minerals — see seedling illustration

Examples of root hair in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Once the tree roots reach the edge, the leading root hairs grow through but then are pinched by the fabric. — Adrian Higgins, idahostatesman, "Preparing trees to go from green pastures to the concrete jungle | Idaho Statesman," 20 Dec. 2017 When your plant is transplanted, it can be stressed if there is damage to root hairs, as this will impede water absorption until the plant can replace them. — Rita Perwich, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Transplanting rosebush need not be thorny issue," 5 Oct. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'root hair.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of root hair

1841, in the meaning defined above

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The first known use of root hair was in 1841

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Cite this Entry

“Root hair.” The Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Inc., https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/root%20hair. Accessed 10 December 2019.

More from Merriam-Webster on root hair

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with root hair

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about root hair

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