achene

[əˈkiːn]

achene Definition

a type of dry fruit that contains a single seed enclosed in a hard outer layer.

Using achene: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "achene" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The dandelion's fluffy white seeds are actually achenes.

• Example

  Strawberries are not true berries, but rather achenes.

• Example

  Sunflower seeds are a type of achene.

Phrases with achene

• achene fruit

  a type of fruit that is dry and indehiscent, meaning it does not split open when ripe

  Example

  Maple trees produce winged achenes that spin like helicopters as they fall to the ground.

• achene dispersal

  the process by which achenes are spread or distributed across a landscape

  Example

  Achenes can be dispersed by wind, water, or animals.

• achene morphology

  the physical characteristics of achenes, such as their shape, size, and texture

  Example

  Botanists use achene morphology to identify different plant species.

Origins of achene

from Greek 'akhaina', meaning 'small chaff'

📌

Summary: achene in Brief

An 'achene' [əˈkiːn] is a type of dry fruit that contains a single seed enclosed in a hard outer layer. Examples of achenes include the seeds of dandelions, strawberries, and sunflowers. Botanists use 'achene morphology' to identify different plant species. Achenes can be dispersed by wind, water, or animals.