B1noun1K

Seed

UK /["/siːd/"]/US /["/siːd/"]/

Definition

the small hard part produced by a plant, from which a new plant can grow

In simple words: A small object from which a plant grows.

Examples

  • She planted a seed in the garden to grow a beautiful flower.
  • The farmer decided to save some seed for the next planting season.
  • In the beginning, a small seed of doubt was planted in her mind about the project.
  • The seed of an idea sparked a whole new business venture.
  • He found a seed of truth in her argument that made him reconsider his stance.

Usage notes

Used when talking about plants, gardening, or growth. Not typically used in formal settings; more common in everyday conversation about nature or agriculture.

Grammar pattern

seed + object (e.g., seed a plant)

Memory hint

Think of 'seed' as a 'small thing that grows big' — like a tiny seed becoming a giant tree.

Collocations

  • grass
  • mustard
  • poppy
  • packet
  • plant
  • sow
  • produce
  • germinate
  • grow
  • sprout
  • head
  • pod
  • packet
  • a variety of seeds
  • grass
  • mustard
  • poppy
  • packet
  • plant
  • sow
  • produce
  • germinate
  • grow
  • sprout
  • head
  • pod
  • packet
  • a variety of seeds
  • first
  • second
  • etc.

Synonyms

  • kernel
  • grain
  • pit
  • spore
  • pip

Antonyms

  • weed
  • pest

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'cede', which means to give up something.
  • Using 'seeds' incorrectly in singular contexts.
  • Mispronouncing as 'see-d' instead of 'seed'.