*shuffles right on past long blog silence*
On 16 April 2020, the Word of the Day selected by the online Macquarie Dictionary was monopodium (noun): “A single main axis which continues to extend at the apex in the original line of growth, giving off lateral branches beneath in acropetal succession.”
It struck me as interesting that monopodium is both a basic graphical concept, in terms of an extending line with offshoots diverging outwards below the tip, as well as a perfectly apt description for the natural phenomenon of trees like pines or conifers, the ones that shoot up straight with branches and growth all beneath the ‘arrow’ pointing skywards.
I don’t believe that I’ve ever actually considered what that very specific kind of shape could be described as, but it’s always a nice surprise to find there is indeed a word for a previously not thought of concept. It’s a little reminder of the expanse of humanity’s linguistic history and, well, thought in general. I may never have questioned a straight object or line with lateral branches coming off it, but to someone at some point? It was important to find a name for that in order to communicate more effectively. I really like that.
I was also intrigued by what ‘acropetal’ means, because I also enjoy a good dictionary definition that throws up more questions than it answers. Breadcrumbs of mystery for everyone!
I haven’t actually looked ‘acropetal’ up yet. I’ve a strong suspicion that its actual meaning won’t be as cool as what my mind has invented, and sometimes, you just have to preserve the mystique.