chlo·ro·sis / klôˈrōsəs/ • n. 1. Bot. abnormal reduction or loss of the normal green coloration of leaves of plants, typically caused by iron deficiency in lime-rich soils, or by disease or lack of light.2. Med. anemia caused by iron deficiency, esp. in adolescent girls, causing a pale, faintly greenish complexion. It was a common diagnosis in the 19th century.DERIVATIVES: chlo·rot·ic / klôrˈätik/ adj.

chlorosis (adj. chlorotic) A symptom of disease or disorder in plants, which involves a reduction in or loss of the normal green coloration; consequently, the plants are typically pale green or even yellow. Chlorosis is caused by conditions that prevent the formation of chlorophyll (e.g. lack of light or a deficiency of iron or magnesium).

chlorosis(adj.chlorotic) A symptom of disease or disorder in plants, which involves a reduction in or loss of the normal green coloration. Consequently, the plants are typically pale green or even yellow. Chlorosis is caused by conditions that prevent the formation of chlorophyll (e.g. lack of light or a deficiency of iron or magnesium).

chlorosis The abnormal condition in plant stems and leaves in which synthesis of the green pigment chlorophyll is inhibited, resulting in a pale yellow coloration. This may be caused by lack of light, mineral deficiency, infection (particularly by viruses), or genetic factors.