English Reference
noun · verb

seeds

n. · v.
US /ˈsidz/ UK /sˈiːdz/ seeds

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Science

    n.the small objects produced by a plant from which a new plant can grow.

    n.the unit of reproduction of a flowering plant, capable of developing into another such plant.

    Simple

    She planted the sunflower seeds in a row along the garden fence.

    In context

    The botanist collected various seeds from the rainforest floor to study their germination patterns under controlled laboratory conditions.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the beginning or cause of something that develops later.

    n.the initial stage or germ of a feeling, idea, or process.

    Simple

    The conversation planted the seeds of a new business idea in his mind.

    In context

    The documentary planted the seeds of doubt regarding the official narrative, leading to a widespread public demand for a new inquiry.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    n.players or teams ranked by their skill in a competition.

    n.competitors ranked according to their perceived skill level to prevent top players from meeting early in a tournament.

    Simple

    The top seeds usually win their first matches quite easily.

    In context

    The tournament saw a major upset when one of the lower seeds defeated the defending champion in the opening round.

  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    v.to plant seeds in the ground, or to rank players in a competition.

    v.to sow a piece of land with seeds; also, to position a competitor in a tournament bracket.

    Simple

    The farmer seeds the field every spring before the heavy rains arrive.

    In context

    The committee seeds the players based on their international performance over the previous twelve months.

    Usage

    The verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated