The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

tendril

IPA:

Dictionary definition of tendril

A thin, flexible stem or shoot that plants use for support and attachment.
"The tendril curled around the fence post for support."

Detailed meaning of tendril

Tendrils are usually coiled or twisted and are able to wrap around objects to anchor the plant in place. They are commonly found in climbing plants, such as vines or creepers, and are essential for the plant's survival and growth. Tendrils are able to sense and respond to touch, allowing the plant to adjust its growth direction and climb toward sunlight. Some plants also have specialized tendrils that are modified leaves or flowers, such as those found in peas and passionflowers. Tendrils are an important adaptation that allows plants to access more sunlight and nutrients, while also avoiding competition with other plants for resources.

Example sentences containing tendril

1. Grapevines extend delicate tendrils to grasp nearby structures.
2. The cucumber plant's tendrils coil around trellis wires.
3. Passionflower vines produce intricate tendrils for climbing.
4. Pea plants employ tendrils to secure themselves to stakes.
5. Pumpkin vines utilize tendrils to cling to fences and poles.
6. Morning glories reach upward with their curling tendrils.

History and etymology of tendril

The noun 'tendril' has its etymological origins in Latin and Old French. It derives from the Latin word 'tendere,' meaning 'to stretch' or 'to extend.' In Old French, 'tendril' was spelled as 'tendron,' which referred to a young shoot or sprout of a plant. Over time, this term was adopted into English as 'tendril,' retaining its association with the slender, flexible stems or shoots that certain plants use for climbing, support, and attachment. The etymology of 'tendril' reflects the stretching and reaching nature of these plant structures as they seek to find support in their environment, highlighting their role in the growth and stability of climbing plants.

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Further usage examples of tendril

1. Sweet peas showcase graceful tendrils in their growth.
2. The bean plant extends tendrils to find vertical support.
3. Squash tendrils spiral around garden frames for stability.
4. Tendrils of ivy cover walls, offering an elegant facade.
5. Jasmine tendrils adorn arbors with fragrant blossoms.
6. The kiwi vine's tendrils anchor it to its host tree.
7. Scarlet runner beans drape themselves with leafy tendrils.
8. Tomatoes can grow long tendrils that require guidance.
9. Watermelon tendrils meander across the garden floor.
10. Bittersweet vines clutch fences with their sinuous tendrils.
11. Hops vines grasp trellises with their strong tendrils.
12. Grappling with tendrils, passion fruit vines climb high.
13. Morning glory tendrils display curling beauty on fences.
14. Wisteria tendrils form cascading curtains of purple blooms.
15. The plant's tendrils reached out to find something to hold onto.
16. The tendrils on the vine were delicate and thin.
17. The young plant uses tendrils to climb towards the light.
18. The scientist examined the tendril's growth patterns under a microscope.
19. The tendrils on the leaves of the plant helped it to detect movement.
20. The flower's tendrils were adorned with beautiful blooms.
21. The plant's tendrils reached out to find a host to cling to.
22. The tendril's delicate structure belied its strength.
23. The tendrils on the creeper plant helped it to climb to great heights.
24. The tendrils on the pumpkin plant grew rapidly in the warm sun.
25. The tendrils on the pea plant were used to attach the plant to a support structure.