Greenhouse
ˈɡriːnhaʊs
Definitions
2 meaningsA building with glass or transparent walls and roof, used for growing plants that need controlled temperature and humidity.
ˈɡriːnhaʊs
A glass structure for growing plants.
The gardener built a greenhouse to protect his delicate orchids.
💡 Simply: Imagine a special house for plants, made of glass or plastic, where it's warm and cozy inside, even when it's cold outside. This house helps plants grow big and strong, like a plant's own little vacation spot!
👶 For kids: A greenhouse is a house made of glass where plants can grow, even if it's cold outside.
More Examples
During the winter, we kept our citrus trees in the greenhouse.
The university has a large greenhouse dedicated to botanical research.
How It's Used
"The farmer uses a greenhouse to grow tomatoes during the winter."
"The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth."
A phenomenon whereby the Earth's atmosphere traps solar radiation, causing an increase in temperature. This is often modified by 'effect' or 'gas'.
ˈɡriːnhaʊs
A phenomenon causing atmospheric warming.
The release of greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels is a major concern.
💡 Simply: Imagine the Earth has a blanket around it. Some gases in the air act like this blanket, trapping the sun's warmth and keeping the Earth from getting too cold. This is called the greenhouse effect. Too much of these gases can make the Earth get too warm!
👶 For kids: The greenhouse effect is like a blanket around the Earth that keeps it warm.
More Examples
Scientists are studying ways to mitigate the greenhouse effect.
The greenhouse effect is essential for life on Earth, but it is being exacerbated by human activity.
How It's Used
"The greenhouse effect is vital to maintaining a habitable climate."
"Increased greenhouse gas emissions contribute to climate change."
From Middle English *grene hous*, referring to a building for growing plants, especially in colder climates. The 'green' element reflects the use for growing plants, not necessarily the color.
Used since the 17th century, initially referring to structures used in gardens, particularly those built in the style of orangery. The term's use broadened over time.
Memory tip
Think of a house made of green things (plants) to help them grow.
Word Origin
"A 'green house' or house for growing plants, from *grene* (plant, growing) and *hous* (building)."