scototaxis
|sco-to-tax-is|
C2
/ˌskɒtəˈtæksɪs/
movement in darkness
Etymology
Etymology Information
'scototaxis' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'skotos,' meaning 'darkness,' and 'taxis,' meaning 'arrangement' or 'order.'
Historical Evolution
'skotos' combined with 'taxis' in Greek to form 'scototaxis,' which was adopted into English with the same meaning.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'movement in response to darkness,' and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the movement of an organism in response to darkness.
The scototaxis of certain fish helps them find shelter in dark environments.
Synonyms
phototaxis (opposite)
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/06/09 18:38