English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

photosynthesis

foh-toh-SIHN-thuh-sihs

Photosynthesis (noun) means the process by which plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy, typically producing oxygen as a byproduct. Example: “Photosynthesis allows plants to turn sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into food.”

noun
1
The process by which plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy, typically producing oxygen as a byproduct.
"Photosynthesis allows plants to turn sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into food."
"Without enough sunlight, the plant's rate of photosynthesis drops sharply."

How to use photosynthesis

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe process plants use to make their own food from sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.

Common pairings
rate of photosynthesis process of photosynthesis

Word forms

photosyntheses plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “photosynthesis” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ allows plants to turn sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into food.

Etymology

From "photo-" ("light") plus "synthesis" ("putting together").

Rhymes for photosynthesis

See all rhymes for photosynthesis →

Frequently asked questions

What does “photosynthesis” mean?

The word “photosynthesis” means the process by which plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy, typically producing oxygen as a byproduct. In plain terms, the process plants use to make their own food from sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.

How do you pronounce “photosynthesis”?

“Photosynthesis” is pronounced foh-toh-SIHN-thuh-sihs (/ˌfoʊ.toʊˈsɪn.θə.sɪs/ in IPA).

How do you use “photosynthesis” in a sentence?

Here is “photosynthesis” used in a sentence: “Photosynthesis allows plants to turn sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into food.”

What part of speech is “photosynthesis”?

“Photosynthesis” is a noun.

Featured in

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial