stoma

/ˈstoʊmə/
noun
  1. A tiny opening on the surface of a leaf or stem that allows gases to move in and out.
    • Scientists study stomata to understand how plants respond to climate change.
    • Plants take in carbon dioxide through their stomata.
    • When it is hot, a plant closes its stomata to save water.
  2. An artificial opening in the body created by surgery, for example to allow waste to leave the body.
    • After the operation, the patient had a stoma on their abdomen.
    • Living with a stoma can take some getting used to, but many people lead active lives.
    • Nurses taught him how to care for his new stoma.
Synonyms
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