Pronunciation: /ˈɛpɪfaɪt/

Definitions of epiphyte

noun a plant that grows on another plant but is not parasitic, such as the numerous ferns, bromeliads, air plants, and orchids growing on tree trunks in tropical rainforests

Example Sentences

A1 An epiphyte is a plant that grows on another plant for support.

A2 Epiphytes often live in tropical rainforests where they can easily attach themselves to trees.

B1 Some epiphytes obtain nutrients and water from the air and rain rather than from the host plant.

B2 Epiphytes play an important role in their ecosystems by providing habitats for other organisms.

C1 Certain epiphytes have adapted to survive in harsh environments such as deserts or high altitudes.

C2 Research on epiphytes has revealed their unique relationships with their host plants and surrounding environment.

Examples of epiphyte in a Sentence

formal Epiphytes are plants that grow harmlessly on other plants and obtain nutrients from the air and rain.

informal I love how epiphytes add a touch of greenery to my indoor garden without needing soil.

slang Check out those cool air plants, they're like epiphytes but easier to care for.

figurative In a bustling city, street vendors are like epiphytes, thriving in the urban environment.

Grammatical Forms of epiphyte

past tense

epiphyted

plural

epiphytes

comparative

more epiphytic

superlative

most epiphytic

present tense

epiphytes

future tense

will epiphyte

perfect tense

have epiphyted

continuous tense

is epiphyting

singular

epiphyte

positive degree

epiphyte

infinitive

to epiphyte

gerund

epiphyting

participle

epiphyted

Origin and Evolution of epiphyte

First Known Use: 1872 year
Language of Origin: Greek
Story behind the word: The word 'epiphyte' originates from the Greek words 'epi' meaning 'upon' and 'phyton' meaning 'plant'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe plants that grow on other plants without being parasitic, the term has expanded to include any plant that grows on another plant or object for physical support.