SENESCENT Meaning and
Definition
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Senescent is an adjective that describes the state or process of aging or becoming old, often specifically referring to living organisms such as plants, animals, or humans. The term is derived from the Latin word "senescens," which means "growing old" or "growing feeble."
In biology, the term senescent commonly refers to the natural and gradual deterioration and decline of cellular or physiological functions that occurs with age. It represents the progressive loss of functional capacity and vigorousness associated with aging, ultimately leading to the impairment of normal cell function, tissue structure, and overall organismal health. Senescence can manifest in various ways, such as reduced cell division and growth, decreased metabolic activity, impaired regeneration or repair abilities, and increased vulnerability to diseases or environmental stressors.
In the context of plants, senescence typically involves the yellowing, and eventual death, of leaves or flowers as a natural part of their life cycle. In animals and humans, senescence represents the biological process that encompasses physical changes, decline in organ functions, and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases. It is characterized by a decline in sensory perception, strength, flexibility, cognitive abilities, and overall vitality.
Overall, "senescent" is a term used to describe the state of aging and the physiological changes that accompany it, highlighting the natural decline in vitality and function that all living organisms experience as they grow older.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SENESCENT
Etymology of SENESCENT
The word "senescent" derives from the Latin word "sēnēscēns", which is the present participle of the verb "sēnēscere". This Latin verb is based on the root word "sēnēs", meaning "old" or "old age". From this root, "sēnēscēns" was formed, which meant "growing old" or "becoming elderly". Over time, this Latin term was adopted into English, and "senescent" emerged to describe something or someone that is in the process of aging or becoming senile.
Similar spelling words for SENESCENT
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