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

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?