abscission
n. C2 Proficiency ab·scis·sion
n. the natural process by which a plant loses a part of itself, like a leaf or a flower. It is the scientific name for falling off.
n. the natural shedding of a part of a plant, such as a leaf, flower, or fruit. Often used in botanical contexts to describe the physiological process of separation.
The abscission of leaves happens in the fall.
The plant produces a special layer of cells to facilitate the abscission of its leaves during the winter months.
Researchers are studying the hormonal triggers that initiate abscission, hoping to develop methods for controlling the timing of fruit drop in commercial orchards.
From Latin abscissiō, from abscindō (“I cut, I tear”).