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Definition of xeromorphic

xeromorphic

/ˌzɪrəˈmɔːrfɪk/
xe · ro · mor · phic
Adverb:xeromorphically
•
Adjective:xeromorphic
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xeromorphic Lexical Profile

xeromorphic Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having structural or anatomical adaptations, such as thick cuticles or reduced leaves, that prevent water loss and enable survival in extremely dry environments (typically used of plants).

Example

"The botanist noted that the desert shrub exhibited several xeromorphic traits, including tiny, leathery leaves and a deep root system."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for xeromorphic
Antonyms
View all antonyms for xeromorphic

Word Nuance & Usage

Often confused with 'xerophytic'; while 'xerophytic' refers to the plant's ecological habitat, 'xeromorphic' specifically describes the anatomical or structural adaptations that prevent water loss.

• Rhymes for xeromorphic

• Nearby Words

xerography
xeroma
xeromorph
xeromorphic
xeromorphous
xerophagy
xerophyllum

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'xēros' (dry) and 'morphē' (form), combined with the English suffix '-ic'. First used in late 19th-century botany.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Xeromorphic. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/xeromorphic
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