xylem

noun

xy·​lem ˈzī-ləm 

-ˌlem

: a complex tissue in the vascular system of higher plants that consists of vessels, tracheids, or both usually together with wood fibers and parenchyma cells, functions chiefly in conduction of water and dissolved minerals but also in support and food storage, and typically constitutes the woody element (as of a plant stem) compare phloem

Examples of xylem in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The fungus attacks the xylem, or water-conducting vessels of the trees, and the tree responds by plugging its tissues. —Ryan Maxin, Austin American-Statesman, 11 Feb. 2024

The remnants of the xylem and phloem — tubules that transport water, sugars and nutrients throughout living leaves — somehow become a root. —Douglas Main, New York Times, 25 Feb. 2024

Bacteria can block the xylem vessels in the stems of cut flowers, which prevents them from absorbing water and nutrients. —Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY, 11 May 2023

The pushpin-size insects, who expend most of their energy vacuuming up xylem fluid, lack the energy required to produce a stream, forcing them to pee in a more creative way. —Jack Tamisiea, Scientific American, 28 Feb. 2023

Word History

Etymology

German, from Greek xylon

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing xylem

• xylem ray

Kids Definition

xylem

noun

xy·​lem ˈzī-ləm 

-ˌlem

: a tissue of higher plants that carries water and dissolved materials upward, functions also in support and storage, lies deeper inside the plant than the phloem, and usually makes up the woody parts (as of a plant stem) compare phloem