pollinate

[pol-uh-neyt]

verb (used with object)

Botany.

pollinated, pollinating 

1. to convey pollen to the stigma of (a flower).

pollinate

/ ˈpɒlɪˌneɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to transfer pollen from the anthers to the stigma of (a flower)

Other Word Forms

• pollinator noun
• interpollinate verb
• overpollinate verb (used with object)
• pollination noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pollinate¹

1870–75; < New Latin pollin- (stem of pollen ) pollen + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Bees are responsible for pollinating roughly one-third of the crops grown around the world, making their health critical for food systems, food security and communities everywhere.

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Lucifer - which means "light bringer" in Latin - is also a reference to shining light on the need for better conservation of native bee species and greater understanding of how endangered plants are pollinated, she said.

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Pumpkins need to be pollinated to produce fruit.

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Honeybees are a vital part of food production and contribute to pollinating 70% of leading global crops.

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They will now investigate the sounds different plants make and whether other species make decisions based on them, such as whether to pollinate or hide inside them or eat the plant.

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Related Words

• fertilize