vernalize

[vur-nl-ahyz] /ˈvɜr nlˌaɪz/

Word Origin

verb (used with object), vernalized, vernalizing.

to shorten the growth period of (a plant) by chilling or other special treatment of it, its seeds, or its bulbs.

Also, especially British, vernalise.

Origin of vernalize

1820-1830

First recorded in 1820-30; vernal + -ize

Related forms

vernalization, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018.
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British Dictionary definitions for vernalize

vernalize

/ˈvɜːnəˌlaɪz/

verb

to subject ungerminated or germinating seeds to low temperatures, which is essential for many (plants) of temperate environments to ensure germination in some species and flowering in others

Derived Forms

vernalization, vernalisation, noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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