pollinator

American  

[pah-luh-nayt-er] / ˈpɑ ləˌneɪt ər /

noun

1. an insect or other animal that pollinates a plant.

2. a plant which provides pollen for cross-pollination.

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Explanation

An animal that helps fertilize plants by moving pollen from one to another is a pollinator. Honeybees act as inadvertent pollinators as they collect nectar to make honey. When you think of pollinators, you probably picture bees buzzing from flower to flower as pollen collects on their legs. Many other insects, including ants, wasps, beetles, and butterflies, are also pollinators. Birds are too — and even mammals like possums and monkeys can pollinate plants, spreading pollen from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another so the plant can reproduce. The Latin root of pollinator, meaning "fine flour," describes pollen's powdery appearance.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

pollinator

Miller is going to take some of those banana pups for her yard, and out front, she’ll plant a pollinator garden.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 24, 2026

They measured several traits that could be influenced by climate conditions or pollinator activity.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 4, 2026

Human development has replaced previously undisturbed habitat, while widespread agricultural use of pesticides and herbicides has contributed to major declines in pollinator populations.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 4, 2026

Stephen Frantz, 82, said he would have to sell his home, with its pollinator garden, if the override succeeds.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 13, 2026

Set of Fruit Depends on Pollination The best yields of fruit are found on trees that have a good pollinator close by.

From Northern Nut Growers Association Report of the Proceedings at the 41st Annual Meeting Pleasant Valley, New York, August 28, 29 and 30, 1950 by Northern Nut Growers Association

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