'Dehiscence' definitions:
Definition of 'dehiscence'
(from WordNet)
noun
(biology) release of material by splitting open of an organ or tissue; the natural bursting open at maturity of a fruit or other reproductive body to release seeds or spores or the bursting open of a surgically closed wound
Definition of 'Dehiscence'
From: GCIDE
- Dehiscence \De*his"cence\, n. [Cf. F. d['e]hiscence.]
- 1. The act of gaping. [1913 Webster]
- 2. (Biol.) A gaping or bursting open along a definite line of attachment or suture, without tearing, as in the opening of pods, or the bursting of capsules at maturity so as to emit seeds, etc.; also, the bursting open of follicles, as in the ovaries of animals, for the expulsion of their contents. [1913 Webster]