tropism

/ˈtroʊpɪzəm/
noun
  1. The growth or movement of a living organism, especially a plant, in response to a stimulus such as light, gravity, or touch.
    • Sunflowers exhibit a strong tropism toward sunlight, turning their heads to follow it across the sky.
    • Roots show positive gravitropism by growing downward into the soil.
    • The science class observed how plant stems demonstrate a tropism by bending toward a light source.
  2. A natural tendency or inclination to respond in a particular way to an external influence.
    • Some people have a tropism for adventure, always seeking new and exciting experiences.
    • Her tropism toward helping others made her a natural choice for the volunteer coordinator role.
    • The company's tropism for innovation keeps it ahead of competitors.
Synonyms
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