Senescence
Noun
- The condition or process of deterioration with age.
- Loss of a cell’s power of division and growth.
Example Sentences
“Senescence comes with aches and pains, but it’s also a time to appreciate your journey through life.”
“The oak tree in the backyard has reached senescence; we’ll need to have it removed before it falls on the house.”
“The researcher is studying how senescence affects the likelihood of developing certain types of cancer.”
Word Origin
English, late 17th century
Why this word?
“Senescence” is a term used in many different scientific fields, including biology, gerontology, botany, and cytology. In all cases, it relates to the changes associated with aging. Some biologists study a natural phenomenon called negligible senescence, in which certain species of wild animals have been found to experience few or none of the effects of aging most animals endure. Tortoises, for example, are believed to be capable of living indefinitely as long as they receive proper nutrition, care, and protection from disease or infection.
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