coast polypody
- noun
- Specialized
:
polipodio costero
- We spotted a rare coast polypody while hiking in northern California.
Examples
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The coast polypody thrives in the damp, shaded forests along the Pacific coastline.
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Botanists study the unique adaptation of the coast polypody to its rocky, coastal habitat.
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The coast polypody thrives in moist, shaded areas.
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Many gardeners appreciate the coast polypody for its unique texture.
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The coast polypody can often be found growing on rocky cliffs along the northern Pacific coast.
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In her guidebook, she mentioned the coast polypody as a fascinating fern due to its leathery fronds.
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The coast polypody is well-suited for planting in shaded gardens where it can enjoy moist soil.
Synonyms
A tough fern with stiff leathery leaves that grows on rocks by the sea
A stiff fern with thick leaves split near the middle that grows on dry rocky ground in western North America
A fern with thick tough leaves and divided fronds that grows in western North American forests
Surface Forms
Morphology
The phrase is a straightforward noun–noun compound where 'coast' specifies the habitat or association of the head noun 'polypody'; together they mean a polypody that grows by the coast. This compositional pattern is regular and predictable, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents can infer the MWE's meaning.
Etymology
Coast polypody gets its name from coast (where it grows) and polypody, a word from old Greek meaning 'many feet' because the plant has many root-like parts that look like little feet holding it to rocks. That's why the name fits this tough, leathery fern that holds on to damp rocks along the shore.
