transpiration

noun

tran·​spi·​ra·​tion ˌtran(t)s-pə-ˈrā-shən 

: the act or process or an instance of transpiring

especially : the passage of watery vapor from a living body (as of a plant) through a membrane or pores

transpirational

ˌtran(t)s-pə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Examples of transpiration in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Share [Findings] The decreasing transpiration of plants, a result of rising carbon dioxide levels, was partly to blame for recent heat waves in northern latitudes. —Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024

An alliance of public transpiration systems called NW Connector also offers routes from Portland or other locations on the Oregon Coast including Newport and Lincoln City to Cannon Beach. —Molly Allen, Travel + Leisure, 21 July 2024

During this time, transpiration (the process by which water evaporates from the plant, particularly through the leaves) occurs at a greater rate thanks to brighter sunlight and warmer temperatures. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 19 July 2024

Some water is also taken up by plants before evaporating into the atmosphere, a process known as transpiration. —Denise Chow, NBC News, 25 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

transpiration

noun

tran·​spi·​ra·​tion tran(t)s-pə-ˈrā-shən 

: the process by which plants give off water vapor through the stomata in their leaves

Medical Definition

transpiration

noun

tran·​spi·​ra·​tion tran(t)s-pə-ˈrā-shən 

: the passage of watery vapor from a living body through a membrane or pores

transpirational

-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl 

adjective