partheno-

American  

1. a combining form meaning “without fertilization,” used in the formation of compound words.

   parthenogenesis.

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Usage

What does partheno- mean? Partheno- is a combining form used like a prefix meaning “without fertilization.” In biology, fertilization specifically refers to sexual fusion of gametes. It is used in some biological terms, especially in botany. Partheno- comes from the Greek parthénos, meaning “maiden” or “virgin.” The rare adjective parthenic, meaning “virginal” or “pure,” also derives from this root. The Parthenon is the magnificent temple of Athena Parthenos—Athena the Virgin, with Parthenos an epithet of the important goddess—on the Acropolis at Athens, Greece.

Etymology

Origin of partheno-

< Greek, combining form representing parthénos maiden