Photokinesis

Photokinesis

ˌfō-tō-kə-ˈnē-səs

Noun

  • Motion or activity induced by light.

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Example Sentences

“The experiment showed signs of photokinesis in the tiny organisms under the lamp.”

“The plant’s slow turning toward the window was a product of photokinesis.”

“Researchers are studying photokinesis to better understand how cells react to light.”

Word Origin

Latin, early 20th century

Why this word?

The parts of this word are found in other, more recognizable words. “Photosynthesis” refers to plants turning sunlight into food, and “kineseology” is the study of movement. In New Latin, “photo-” means “light” and “-kinesis” means “movement.” The full word “photokinesis” refers to movement induced by light. It might be a plant turning itself to face the sun, or it could be you waking up with the sunrise. 

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ˈɡäsəmər