noun
cone
The seed-bearing structure of a conifer.
The pine tree produces cones that protect its seeds.
Etymology
The Greek word already names a pinecone. The botanical sense continues that name for a conifer’s structure of overlapping scales bearing its seeds.
More examples
- She collects fallen cones beneath the spruce trees.
- The cone opens as it dries, releasing its seeds.
- A squirrel pulls seeds from a pine cone.
Forms
cone · cones
conifer noun — A tree or shrub that produces cones.
Similar words
- pine cone
- Specifically a cone from a pine, not other conifers.