epigeous

[ep-i-jee-uhs]

adjective

Botany.

1. growing on or close to the ground.

2. (of cotyledons) lifted above ground in germination.

epigeous

/ ˌɛpɪˈdʒiːəs /

adjective

1. a variant of epigeal

epigeous

1. Relating to the germination of a seed in which the cotyledons emerge above the surface of the ground.

2. Compare hypogeous

Word History and Origins

Origin of epigeous¹

First recorded in 1825–35; from Greek epígeios “on, of the world,” equivalent to epi- prefix meaning “on, over, near, etc.” + -geios ( ge-, stem of gê “earth“ + -ios adjective suffix); epi-, -ous

Example Sentences

It is a short, unattractive tree, with epigeous branches spreading out in a straggling manner.

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