Fungus
/ˈfʌŋ.ɡəs/noun
A group of spore-producing organisms feeding on organic matter.
Did you know?In ancient cultures, fungi were often associated with magic and transformation, believed to be gateways to other realms.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bhongh-
“To swell; to soak.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
φύκιος (phykios)
“A plant growing in water; a sponge.”
Latin
Latin
fungus
“Mushroom; edible fungus.”
Old French
Old French
fungus
“Mushroom, specifically a type of edible fungus.”
14th Century
Middle English
fungus
“Fungus, mushroom, or mold.”
Modern English
English
fungus
“Any member of a diverse group of spore-producing organisms.”