Etiolate (Verb)
Meaning 1
Bleach and alter the natural development of (a green plant) by excluding sunlight.
Classification
Verbs of size, temperature change, intensifying, etc..
Examples
- The lack of direct sunlight began to etiolate the seedling as it stretched towards the small window for any available light.
- Careless placement can etiolate even the hardiest succulents if they do not receive enough sun to undergo photosynthesis.
- Some plant species naturally begin to etiolate if even a fraction of sunlight is blocked due to their reliance on it.
- Etiolate stems of a bean sprout show elongation while struggling to reach desired light levels in the basement.
- The once healthy vegetable sprouts began to etiolate under the old, partly shaded greenhouse structure after repairs.
Hypernyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
Make pale or sickly; "alcohol etiolates your skin".
Classification
Verbs of grooming, dressing and bodily care.
Examples
- Overexposure to the sun's harsh UV rays can etiolate the delicate skin of fair-complexioned people.
- A poor diet consisting mainly of junk food tends to etiolate one's overall health and complexion.
- Years of smoking etiolated her once-radiant complexion, giving her a washed-out appearance.
- Neglecting to follow a skincare routine can etiolate the skin, making it look dull and lifeless.
- Excessive consumption of red wine etiolates his skin, accentuating the wrinkles and fine lines on his face.
Hypernyms
Related Words
Meaning 3
Make weak by stunting the growth or development of.
Classification
Verbs of size, temperature change, intensifying, etc..
Examples
- Etiolate the stem by keeping it tied to the stake for a prolonged period.
- The young artist allowed criticism to etiolate her confidence, making her question her talent.
- The prolonged darkness had begun to etiolate the plants, weakening their stem and leaves.
- Prolonged stress and anxiety started to etiolate her immune system, making her more susceptible to illnesses.
- The restrictive practice routine seriously began to etiolate the sportsman's potential for long-term career growth.