phyto-

1. a combining form meaning “plant,” used in the formation of compound words:

   phytogenesis.

phyto-

combining_form

1. indicating a plant or vegetation

   phytogenesis

Word History and Origins

Origin of phyto-¹

< Greek phyt ( ón ) a plant + -o-

Word History and Origins

Origin of phyto-¹

from Greek phuton plant, from phuein to make grow

Example Sentences

Another key filter the partners at Phyto use when deciding which species make the cut: a plant’s potential to hold up in a particular place and under its particular pressures.

From Seattle Times

The relationships between plants and pollinators have become increasingly important in Phyto’s work.

From Seattle Times

Specifically, the Phyto designers seek to build in maximum diversity — what Ms. West refers to as the “ecological intensification” of a site — by using ecologically high-performance plants that match their aesthetic goals.

From Seattle Times

A garden is at its most effective — by both biophilic and ecological measures — the Phyto team believes, when it is “immersive.”

From Seattle Times

As anthropogenic effects on the climate and nature have become more starkly front and center, Phyto’s plant-selection process has also evolved.

From Seattle Times

Words That Use phyto-

What does phyto- mean?

Phyto- is a combining form used like a prefix meaning “plant.” It is often used in scientific terms, especially in biology.

Phyto- comes from the Greek phytón, meaning “plant.”

The corresponding form of phyto- combined to the end of words is -phyte.

Want to know more? Read our Words That Use -phyte article.

Examples of phyto-

One example of a scientific term that features the combining form phyto- is phytolith. A phytolith is “a microscopic silica body that forms in a living plant and becomes fossilized.”

The first part of the word, phyto-, means “plant.” The second half of the word, -lith, comes from the Greek líthos and means “stone.” Phytolith literally translates to “plant stone.”

What are some words that use the combining form phyto-?

• phytoalexin
• phytobiology
• phytocide
• phytodermatitis
• phytography (using the equivalent form of phyto- in New Latin)
• phytoplankton
• phytology

What are some other forms that phyto- may be commonly confused with?

• -phyll
• photo-
• phyco-
• phylo-
• psycho-
• pyelo-
• pyo-

The combining form phyto- should not be confused with the proper noun Phyto, which, alluding to phyto-’s meaning of “plant,” has been used as a brand or product name for hair and skin care products made from botanical extracts.

Break it down!

The combining form -logy is used to name sciences or bodies of knowledge. What is phytology?