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actinomorphic

actinomorphic

9.9
A flower that can be divided into similar halves by any line through its center
  • adjective
  • /ˌæktɪˈnoʊmɔrfɪk/
  • Specialized
translation icon : actinomórfico
  • Most wildflowers in this region exhibit actinomorphic symmetry, unlike the zygomorphic ones in tropical areas.

Examples

  • The lily's actinomorphic flowers make it easy to identify among other species.

  • Many daisies are actinomorphic in structure.

  • In botany class, we examined how actinomorphic flowers differ from bilaterally symmetrical ones.

  • The actinomorphic flower can be divided into symmetrical halves.

  • In botany class, we examined how actinomorphic flowers can be divided into identical halves from any angle.

  • The lily's actinomorphic flowers are well-known for their ability to maintain symmetry regardless of the cutting plane.

  • Most wildflowers in this region are actinomorphic, allowing them to attract a wider range of pollinators.

Synonyms

symmetric
vsactinomorphic
6 4.3

The same on both sides when split down the middle

specifies radial symmetry allowing division by any longitudinal plane through the axis
actinomorphous
vsactinomorphic
  • Specialized
9.9

Able to be cut into equal halves by any straight line through the center, like a daisy

is limited to flowers rather than organisms in its usage
actinoid
vsactinomorphic
  • Specialized
9.9

Having a star-shaped form like a starfish or many flowers

emphasizes being divisible into similar halves rather than general star shapes

Antonyms

zygomorphic
  • Specialized
9.9

A flower or shape that can be split into two equal halves in only one way

How Symmetrical

actinomorphic
  • Specialized
9.9
zygomorphic
  • Specialized
9.9
asymmetric
11 6.1

Surface Forms

actinomorphic positive

Morphology

actinomorphic = actin + morph (opaque) = actino + morph + ic

The combining form 'actino-' (ray) is technical and unfamiliar to most learners; although '-morph' relates to shape, the full scientific meaning 'radially symmetric' is specialized.

Etymology

The word actinomorphic comes from the parts actino- meaning 'ray' and -morphic meaning 'shape'. A helpful image is a star or a wheel: an actinomorphic flower is 'ray-shaped', so you can cut it through the center in many directions and each half looks similar.