dimorphism
nounUK /daɪˈmɔːfɪzəm/
US /daɪˈmɔːrfɪzəm/
Dimorphism is when the same kind of animal or plant comes in two very different shapes or looks.
The bright feathers of the male peacock and the plain brown of the female are a famous example of dimorphism.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The state of having two distinct forms or types within one species, such as different body sizes between males and females.
Sexual dimorphism in deer means the males grow antlers while the females do not.
3. In chemistry, the existence of a substance in two different crystal forms.
The dimorphism of carbon gives us both diamond and graphite.
4. In botany, the condition of a plant producing two different kinds of leaves or flowers.
The water plant shows dimorphism, with broad floating leaves and thin underwater ones.