dehiscence Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (biology) release of material by splitting open of an organ or tissue; the natural bursting open at maturity of a fruit or other reproductive body to release seeds or spores or the bursting open of a surgically closed wound

WordNet


De*his"cence noun
Etymology
Cf. F. déhiscence.
Definitions
  1. The act of gaping.
  2. (Biol.) A gaping or bursting open along a definite line of attachment or suture, without tearing, as in the opening of pods, or the bursting of capsules at maturity so as to emit seeds, etc.; also, the bursting open of follicles, as in the ovaries of animals, for the expulsion of their contents.

Webster 1913