heteromorphic Definition
- 1having different forms, shapes, or structures
- 2occurring in two or more different forms, especially at different stages in the life cycle
Using heteromorphic: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "heteromorphic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The heteromorphic leaves of the plant are used for medicinal purposes.
Example
The heteromorphic species of butterfly undergoes a complete metamorphosis.
Example
The heteromorphic crystals exhibit different optical properties.
heteromorphic Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for heteromorphic
- pleomorphic
- various
- diverse
- polymorphic
Antonyms for heteromorphic
Phrases with heteromorphic
heteromorphic alternation of generations
a life cycle in which there are two distinct forms of individuals that alternate with each other in successive generations
Example
The heteromorphic alternation of generations is found in many plants.
heteromorphic sex chromosomes
sex chromosomes that differ in size, shape, or genetic content
Example
Humans have heteromorphic sex chromosomes, with females having two X chromosomes and males having one X and one Y chromosome.
fossils of different forms or shapes that belong to the same species
Example
The heteromorphic fossils of ammonites are used to study their evolution.
Origins of heteromorphic
from Greek 'heteros' meaning 'different' and 'morphē' meaning 'form'
Summary: heteromorphic in Brief
'Heteromorphic' [het-er-uh-mawr-fik] describes things that have different forms, shapes, or structures. It can also refer to organisms that occur in two or more different forms, especially at different stages in their life cycle. Examples include the heteromorphic leaves of a plant, the heteromorphic species of butterfly, and the heteromorphic crystals. The term extends into phrases like 'heteromorphic alternation of generations,' 'heteromorphic sex chromosomes,' and 'heteromorphic fossils.'
