apical dominance

noun

: inhibition of the growth of lateral buds by the terminal bud of a shoot

Examples of apical dominance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Roses are subject to a growth phenomenon called apical dominance. Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Feb. 2022 Trained to grow horizontally, the top buds on climbing and rambling roses lose their apical dominance and send out lateral growth, resulting in more blooms. Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Feb. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of apical dominance was in 1919

Dictionary Entries Near apical dominance

Cite this Entry

“Apical dominance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apical%20dominance. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!