Monocots are a type of flowering plant with a single cotyledon, or embryonic leaf, in their seeds. Other synonyms for the term "monocot" include "monocotyledon," "monocotyledoneae," and "Liliopsida." These plants are characterized by long, narrow leaves that grow parallel to the stem and flowers with petals in multiples of three. Other defining features of monocots include fibrous or adventitious root systems, scattered vascular bundles in their stems, and a lack of secondary growth. Some common examples of monocots include grasses, lilies, orchids, and palm trees. Through their unique characteristics and diverse range of species, monocots play a crucial role in ecosystems around the world.