spore
n.n. a tiny, seed-like particle that some plants and fungi use to reproduce. It can travel through the air and grow into a new plant or mushroom.
n. a reproductive cell capable of developing into a new individual, typically produced by fungi, plants, or algae. It is often dispersed by wind or water to facilitate reproduction.
The mushroom releases millions of spores into the air.
During the rainy season, the damp forest floor is covered in a fine layer of spores from the local fungi.
Unlike seeds, which contain stored nutrients, a spore is a microscopic reproductive unit that requires specific environmental conditions to germinate and develop into a mature organism.
From New Latin spora, from Ancient Greek σπορά (sporá, “seed”), related to σπόρος (spóros, “sowing”) and σπείρω (speírō, “to sow”). Related to English spread).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated May 18, 2026