genus Phallus
- noun
- /ˈdʒɛnəs ˈfæləs/
- Specialized
- The genus Phallus includes several species commonly known as stinkhorns.
Examples
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Many species in the genus Phallus emit a strong odor to attract insects.
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Many fungi in the genus Phallus are recognized by their distinctive shape and smell.
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Botanists discovered a rare member of the genus Phallus in the damp woodland.
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The genus Phallus includes many unique fungi.
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Many species in the genus Phallus are known for their odor.
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The genus Phallus includes several species that are often found in decaying wood.
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Researchers study the genus Phallus to understand its role in forest ecosystems.
Synonyms
A group of mushrooms with a tall stem, hanging cap, and a strong bad smell
Surface Forms
Morphology
The phrase is compositionally transparent: 'genus' denotes a biological rank and 'Phallus' is the name of that taxon, so a learner who knows both constituents can infer it refers to the taxonomic group called Phallus. Although it is specialist vocabulary, the combination follows standard noun + name patterns found across languages, so its basic meaning is directly derivable from the parts.
Etymology
Genus Phallus gets its name from an old Greek word phallus, meaning 'penis', because these mushrooms are shaped like a small upright tube and their smelly cap attracts flies. That's why the name fits this group of 'stinkhorn' fungi.