noun
spore
spaw
noun
1
A tiny reproductive cell released by fungi, algae, or certain plants, capable of growing into a new organism.
"Mushroom spores drift on the wind and settle wherever conditions are right."
"The mold released millions of spores into the damp room."
2
A tough, dormant cell produced by some bacteria that helps them survive harsh conditions.
"Certain bacteria form spores that can survive extreme heat."
How to Use Spore
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA tiny cell, released by fungi or some bacteria, that can grow into a new organism or help it survive.
Common pairings
release spores
fungal spores
spore-forming bacteria
Word Forms
spored past tense, spores plural, spores singular
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Mushroom _____ drift on the wind and settle wherever conditions are right.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek spora, "seed," related to speirō, "to sow."