reproductive system
Americannoun
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The system of organs involved with animal reproduction, especially sexual reproduction. The structure of animal reproductive systems depends on the type of fertilization (internal or external) and whether the animal lays eggs or bears live offspring. In mammals, the reproductive system consists mainly of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina in females and the testes, sperm ducts, and penis in males.
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The system of organs involved with the reproduction, especially the sexual reproduction, of plants and other complex multicellular organisms that are not animals. In flowering plants, the reproductive system consists of pistils and stamens. In conifers and most other gymnosperms, the reproductive system consists of male and female cones. The male gametes are produced directly from a cell in the pollen grain of these gymnosperms rather than in a distinct reproductive structure, while the female cones have ovules containing archegonia. In seedless plants (bryophytes and ferns), the reproductive system consists of archegonia and antheridia.
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Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
These hormonal shifts affect more than just the reproductive system — they influence mood, digestion and potentially injury risk.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2026
It is carried out to treat health problems affecting the female reproductive system.
From BBC • Nov. 16, 2024
Shikanov, Li and U-M collaborators such as Sue Hammoud, U-M associate professor of human genetics and urology, are mapping other parts of the female reproductive system, including the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2024
The prostate is part of the reproductive system in men.
From Seattle Times • Jan. 26, 2024
“It’s the reproductive system of a frog. A male frog,” I added.
From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
