POLYMORPHOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Polymorphous is an adjective that refers to the existence or capacity for taking on different forms, shapes, or structures. Derived from the Greek words "poly" meaning "many" and "morphē" meaning "form," the term indicates the ability of something to assume various appearances, traits, or characteristics.
In a broader sense, polymorphous describes something that is versatile, flexible, or adaptable, capable of assuming different states, functions, or expressions. It implies a diversity or multiplicity of forms, indicating an object, organism, or concept that can manifest in numerous ways.
In the realm of psychology, the term polymorphous is commonly used to describe an individual's fluidity or variability in their sexual desires, orientations, or preferences. Freud introduced this concept in his theory of psychosexual development, stating that infants start with a polymorphously perverse disposition, meaning they have an undifferentiated sexual energy that can be expressed in a variety of ways, without specifically following adult social norms or restrictions.
Moreover, polymorphous characteristics can be observed in various fields, such as biology, where it refers to an organism's ability to exist in different life stages or to show various forms within a species. It can also describe certain minerals or crystals that display various crystalline structures based on temperature or pressure changes.
Overall, polymorphous defines the capacity for diversity, versatility, and changeability, highlighting the presence of numerous forms or the ability to assume different states or expressions.
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Polymorphic, pleomorphic, multiform.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Having many forms; assuming many shapes; in bot., applied to plants where parts or species are subject to considerable diversity of form.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for POLYMORPHOUS
Etymology of POLYMORPHOUS
The word "polymorphous" has its roots in the combination of two Greek words: "poly" and "morphēs".
The prefix "poly" means "many" or "multiple", while "morphēs" refers to "form" or "shape". Therefore, the word "polymorphous" can be understood as combining these elements to mean "having many forms" or "existing in multiple shapes".
This word is commonly used in various fields, such as biology, psychology, and art, to describe the ability or tendency of something to assume different forms or to have various manifestations.
Similar spelling words for POLYMORPHOUS
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