self-fertilization

[ self-fur-tl-uh-zey-shuhn, self- ]

noun

1. Botany. fertilization of an ovum of a plant by a male gamete from the same flower ( cross-fertilization ).
2. Zoology. fertilization of the ovum of a hermaphroditic animal by a sperm from the same individual, as in some species of tapeworm.

self-fertilization

noun

1. fertilization in a plant or animal by the fusion of male and female gametes produced by the same individual Compare cross-fertilization

self-fertilization

/ sĕlf′fûr′tl-ĭ-zā′shən /

1. Fertilization that occurs when male and female gametes produced by the same organism unite. Self-fertilization occurs in many protozoans and invertebrate animals. It results from self-pollination in plants. Self-fertilization allows an isolated individual organism to reproduce but restricts the genetic diversity of a community.
2. Compare cross-fertilization

Derived Forms

• ˌself-ˈfertiˌlized, adjective
• ˌself-ˈfertiˌlizing, adjective

Other Words From

• self-ferti·lized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-fertilization¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

In the flower where the father and mother part matures at the same time, self-fertilization is the rule.

From Project Gutenberg

And he shows how this species is even wonderfully and specially modified to effect self-fertilization.

From Project Gutenberg

Dr. Gray thought it very likely there would; for, when cross-fertilization is not effected, self-fertilization often takes place.

From Project Gutenberg

I think the evidence of the self-fertilization is far clearer than that of the cross-fertilization.

From Project Gutenberg

They possess no possible resource for self-fertilization in the neglect of these insect sponsors.

From Project Gutenberg