ScienceJuly 31, 2026

transpiration

tran-spuh-RAY-shun

Definition

The process by which moisture is carried through plants from roots to small pores on the underside of leaves, where it changes to vapor and is released into the atmosphere.

Etymology

The word originated in the 17th century from the French 'transpiration', formed from the Latin prefix 'trans-' (across) and 'spirare' (to breathe).

In the news

In this article, transpiration is used to describe the water loss from plants used in environmental projects, noting that if this rate exceeds water replenishment, the plants become a hydrological liability.

Measuring Geopolitical Saturation: Satellite Verification Ve

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