stem
Plural
stems
1
the main part of a plant that connects the roots to the twigs, leaves, and flowers
A stem is a vital part of a plant's anatomy that supports leaves, flowers, and fruits, and serves as a channel for transporting water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant. Stems come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from woody and rigid to soft and flexible, depending on the plant species. They can grow above or below ground, and they often exhibit nodes, where leaves, branches, or flowers emerge, and internodes, the spaces between nodes. Stems play a crucial role in the growth, structure, and overall health of plants, enabling them to thrive in diverse environments and adapt to changing conditions.
- The scientist examined the stem under a microscope to study its structure and how it conducts nutrients.
- After picking the herbs, she removed the stems and used the leaves for cooking.
- The gardener trimmed the stem of the rose bush to promote new growth and healthier blooms.
- She carefully cut the stems of the flowers before arranging them in a vase to ensure they absorbed water properly.
Synonyms:
2
(in linguistics) the base form of a word after removing affixes
A stem is the base form of a word to which affixes, such as prefixes or suffixes, can be added to create new words or modify its meaning. The stem contains the core meaning of the word and can stand alone or serve as the foundation for further word formation. For example, in the word "unhappiness", the stem is "happy", which conveys the primary meaning, while "un-" and "-ness" are added to change the meaning and grammatical function. Stems are essential in linguistics for understanding word structure and the relationships between words in a language.
- In "unhappiness," the stem is "happy."
- Linguists analyze stems to understand word formation.
- Some verbs change their stem in different tenses.
- The prefix was added to the original stem to form a new word.
- Identifying the stem helps in learning related words.
Synonyms:
3
a long, narrow, or cylindrical part of an object or mechanism
- He replaced the broken stem of his wine glass.
- The stem of the watch connected the crown to the gears.
- She adjusted the bicycle's handlebar stem for better posture.
- The pipe's stem was made of polished wood.
- The stem of the goblet was elegantly twisted.
Synonyms:
4
a type of turn in skiing made by angling one ski outward while the other remains straight
- He practiced the stem to control his speed on steep slopes.
- Beginners learn the stem before moving to parallel turns.
- The instructor demonstrated a clean stem at the corner.
- She used a quick stem to avoid an obstacle.
- Proper weight balance is crucial for an effective stem.
Synonyms:
5
the forwardmost part of a ship or aircraft, forming its leading edge or prow
- The ship's stem cut cleanly through the waves.
- The aircraft's stem showed minor damage after landing.
- Rust had formed along the metal stem of the old vessel.
- Divers inspected the ship's stem for cracks.
- The sleek stem design improved the boat's speed.
6
the hollow shaft of a smoking pipe connecting the bowl to the mouthpiece
- He cleaned the pipe's stem after every use.
- Smoke curled through the stem as he exhaled.
- The stem was carved from dark cherry wood.
- A crack appeared along the stem of the old pipe.
- The artisan polished the stem until it shone.
7
a person's leg, often used playfully or in casual conversation
- She has long, toned stems that look amazing in those shorts.
- He kicked the ball with both stems.
- Those stems will look great after the hike.
- Don't trip over your own stems!
- He stretched his stems before the race.