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Agency Dictionary

Pollination

nounPronunciation: /ˌpɒl.əˈneɪ.ʃən/

In Portuguese: Polinização

What does “Pollination” mean?

The transfer of pollen grains from the male anther to the female stigma of a flower, enabling fertilization and seed production.

Etymology

From pollinate + -ion. The verb pollinate derives from Latin pollen (fine flour, fine dust), which named the powdery grains of a flower by analogy with milled grain. The process of pollen transfer was given this name as botanical science formalized the description of plant reproduction.

Usage note

Cross-pollination occurs when pollen moves between different plants; self-pollination occurs within the same flower or plant.

Often confused with

fertilization
Pollination is the transfer of pollen to the stigma; fertilization is the later fusion of the male cell carried by the pollen with the egg inside the ovule, which produces a seed.

Word family

  • pollen
  • pollinate
  • pollinator
  • cross-pollination

Rhymes with

  • station
  • creation
  • formation
  • donation
  • sensation
  • vacation

Usage examples

  • A bee landing on a flower and gifting it the pollen of another distant flower so that it can grow and mature with life.

    Issue.12 - Semiotics
  • Their visual appeal makes it possible to not need to rely on their fragrance in order to attract pollination.

Concept

Source editions

Where this entry comes from in the Agency editorial.

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Also from these editions: terms

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Exceeding what is sufficient, necessary, or useful.
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To cut apart or systematically separate components of an organism or complex idea in order to examine its structure in detail.
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Lasting for only a very brief period of time; fleeting, transitory, or impermanent in nature.
Semioticsnoun
The study of signs, symbols, and the processes of signification: how meaning is created and communicated through visual, verbal, and cultural systems.
Superficialitynoun
The quality of lacking depth of character, serious thought, or profound substance, remaining confined to outward appearances.
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A mark, sign, character, or visual emblem used as a conventional representation of an object, function, concept, or abstract idea.
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A statement, situation, or person that appears contradictory or absurd yet may reveal a deeper underlying truth.
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The state or quality of being effusively enthusiastic, abundantly productive, or lavish in growth.
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The state of being strong, active, and full of life or vigor.
Fragileadjective
Easily broken, damaged, or disrupted, requiring delicate handling and protective consideration.
Synergicadjective
Working together cooperatively in such a way that the combined effect is greater than the sum of separate actions.

Also from these editions: concepts

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Cite this entry

“Pollination”. Agency Wiki, Agency Brasil. Published on November 11, 2026. https://www.agencybrasil.com/en/wiki/dictionary/pollination