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Definition of photosynthesis
photosynthesis
/ˌfoʊ.toʊˈsɪn.θə.sɪs/
pho · to · syn · the · sis
Adverb:photosynthetically
•Plural:photosyntheses
•Adjective:photosynthetic
photosynthesis Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
6
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
5
photosynthesis Game Scores & Validity
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WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The biological process by which green plants, algae, and certain bacteria use sunlight to synthesize nutrients from carbon dioxide and water, generally releasing oxygen as a byproduct.
Example
"Through photosynthesis, the forest canopy absorbs vast amounts of carbon dioxide and releases oxygen into the atmosphere."
2
In chemistry, the synthesis of a chemical compound induced by radiant energy, especially light.
Example
"Researchers are developing artificial photosynthesis systems to convert solar energy directly into clean hydrogen fuel."
Antonyms
View all antonyms for photosynthesis• Rhymes for photosynthesis
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 19th century by combining the Greek prefix 'photo-' (from 'phos', meaning light) with 'synthesis' (from 'syntithenai', meaning to put together).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Photosynthesis. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/photosynthesis