Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hermaphroditic

Adjective
/hɜːrˈmæf.rəˌdɪt.ɪk/
Definition
Referring to an organism that has both male and female reproductive organs.
Examples
  • Some species of plants are hermaphroditic, having flowers that contain both stamens and pistils.
  • In certain fish species, individuals can be hermaphroditic, allowing them to change sex during their lifecycle.
  • The earthworm is a well-known example of a hermaphroditic organism.
Meaning
Hermaphroditic describes the characteristic of a living organism being able to produce both sperm and eggs, allowing them to reproduce sexually as either sex.
Synonyms
  • bisexual
  • dual-gendered
  • androgynous