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Glite Dictionary
gemma

gemma

1 9.9
A small part of some mosses or liverworts that breaks off and grows into a new plant
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒɛmə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : gema
  • The gemma is essential for the asexual reproduction of liverworts, allowing them to spread in their environment.

Examples

  • In mosses, a small gemma can detach from the parent plant and grow into a new one.

  • During spring, the gemmae of the mosses begin to develop, leading to new leafy growth.

  • Just please, Gemma, let me do this.

    Vivarium (2019)

  • Please, Gemma, let me do...

    Vivarium (2019)

  • Gemma, please, just let me do this, okay?

    Vivarium (2019)

  • Gemma and Tom, lovely to meet you.

    Vivarium (2019)

  • Well, don't get left behind, Gemma.

    Vivarium (2019)

  • Please, Gemma, just please.

    Vivarium (2019)

  • - Gemma, please!

    Vivarium (2019)

  • Yeah, well, maybe, Gemma, if you didn't say no to every other goddamn house we looked at, we wouldn't have ended up here.

    Vivarium (2019)

Synonyms

gemmule
vsgemma
  • Specialized
9.9

A small bud in sponges or plants that grows into a new individual

is specific to certain non-vascular plants and detaches to form a new plant

Surface Forms

gemma singular
gemmae plural

Etymology

The word gemma comes from a Latin gemma meaning 'bud' or 'jewel' and is related to the English word gem, so you can picture a tiny 'gem' on a plant. That's why a gemma is a small 'bud' that detaches from the parent and becomes a new plant.