cross-fertilization (redirected from cross-fertile)

cross-fer·til·i·za·tion (krôsfûrtl--zshn, krs-)

n.

1. Fertilization by the union of gametes from different individuals, sometimes of different varieties or species. Also called allogamy.

2. Mutual exchange, as between dissimilar concepts, cultures, or classifications, that enhances understanding or produces something beneficial.

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cross-fertile adj.

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cross-fertilization

n

(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biology) fertilization by the fusion of male and female gametes from different individuals of the same species Compare self-fertilization

cross-fertile  adj

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cross-fertilization

The fertilization that occurs when the nucleus of a male sex cell from one individual joins with the nucleus of a female sex cell from another individual. In plants, cross-pollination is an example of cross-fertilization. Also called allogamy. Compare self-fertilization.

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cross-fertilize verb

Thesaurus

Noun	1.	cross-fertilization - fertilization by the union of male and female gametes from different individual of the same species cross-fertilisation fecundation, fertilisation, fertilization, impregnation - creation by the physical union of male and female gametes; of sperm and ova in an animal or pollen and ovule in a plant allogamy - cross-fertilization in plants self-fertilisation, self-fertilization - fertilization by the union of male and female gametes from the same individual
	2.	cross-fertilization - interchange between different cultures or different ways of thinking that is mutually productive and beneficial; "the cross-fertilization of science and the creative arts" cross-fertilisation interchange, reciprocation, give-and-take - mutual interaction; the activity of reciprocating or exchanging (especially information)