lichen
lichen Lexical Profile
lichen Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A composite organism that emerges from algae or cyanobacteria living among the filaments of multiple fungi species in a mutualistic relationship, typically forming a crusty, leafy, or branching growth on rocks, tree trunks, and walls.
"During our hike, we noticed a pale green lichen growing vigorously on the north side of the old oak trees."
Any of several skin diseases characterized by the eruption of flat, thickened patches or papules, such as lichen planus.
"The dermatologist diagnosed the intensely itchy purple bumps on her wrist as lichen planus."
Word Nuance & Usage
Lichen is a homophone of the verb 'liken' (to point out a resemblance), but the two words are entirely unrelated in meaning and etymology.
• Rhymes for lichen
Word Origin & Etymology
Early 17th century: from Latin lichen, derived from Greek leikhēn meaning 'tree moss' or 'lichen', possibly related to leikhein meaning 'to lick'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.