lichen

Meanings

• noun

  A complex organism that forms a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, typically a green alga or a cyanobacterium, growing on various surfaces.

  - "Lichen is essential for understanding the biosphere's history."
  - "Mosses and lichens are the earliest colonizers of bare rocks."

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Pronunciation

1. /ˈlaɪ.kn̩/
   
   
   
   Source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1408016"

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Synonyms

cancer

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Variants

List of all variants of lichen that leads to same result
lichen , lichened , lichenous , lichens , reindeer lichen , reindeer moss , reindeer mosses

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Etymology

origin and the way in which meanings have changed throughout history.

From Old English līcian, 'to live or dwell' + Old Norse knarr, 'moss'.

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Trivia

Any details, considerations, events or pieces of information regarding the word

1. Lichen is the oldest known organism on Earth, with some specimens estimated to be over 10,000 years old.

2. Lichen is the primary colonizer of bare rocks and can help prevent soil erosion.

3. Some lichens contain compounds that can be used as natural dyes, with the most famous example being 'Orkney Red' from Scotland.

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Related Concepts

informations on related concepts or terms closely associated with the word. Discuss semantic fields or domains that the word belongs to

1. Biosphere: Lichen is an essential component of the biosphere, especially in extreme environments.

2. Symbiosis: Lichen is a classic example of mutualistic symbiosis, with the fungus providing protection and the photosynthetic partner supplying nutrients.

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Culture

Any cultural, historical, or symbolic significance of the word. Explore how the word has been used in literature, art, music, or other forms of expression.

Lichen has been used as a natural dye, particularly in Icelandic textiles. It has also been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, such as treating wounds and preventing scurvy.

How to Memorize "lichen"

1. visualize
   

   - Visualize a mossy rock covered in a greenish-gray crust. This crust is actually a complex organism called lichen.
   - Imagine a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and a green alga, working together to survive in various environments.

2. associate
   

   - Associate lichen with the first colonizers of bare rocks and extreme environments.
   - Link lichen with natural dyes, especially in Icelandic textiles.

3. mnemonics
   

   - Lichen is a 'Living Icelandic Covering for Harsh Environments'.
   - Remember: 'Lichen is a Living Icelandic Covering for Harsh Environments'.

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