dormant

C1 · Advanced Science Technical

adj. when a plant or animal slows down its body to survive cold or dry weather.

adj. relating to a state of minimal metabolic activity, typically as a survival strategy during unfavourable environmental conditions.

“Many trees stay dormant during the winter to save energy until spring.”

“Certain desert seeds can remain dormant in the parched soil for decades, only germinating when a rare heavy rainfall provides sufficient moisture.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Science Technical · Archaic

n. a large, heavy piece of wood or metal used to support a floor or roof.

n. a primary horizontal structural member, such as a large crossbeam or joist, used in traditional timber framing.

“The builders placed a thick oak dormant across the room to hold up the ceiling.”

“During the restoration of the medieval manor, the architects discovered that the original chestnut dormant had suffered significant rot and required reinforcement.”