How would you describe a swollen plant cell that has taken in water through osmosis?

A swollen plant cell that has taken in water through osmosis is described as turgid. When a plant cell absorbs water, it fills with the water which increases internal pressure against the cell wall. This pressure is what characterizes a turgid cell. The cell wall, being rigid, helps maintain this form, preventing the cell from bursting and providing structural support to the plant.

In contrast, a flaccid cell has lost water, resulting in reduced internal pressure; this can lead to wilting in plants. A dehydrated cell has an even greater loss of water and does not maintain its shape or structure well. Compressed is not an accurate description, as this term suggests a lack of internal pressure, which is contrary to the characteristics of a turgid cell. Thus, a turgid state indicates healthy functioning of the plant cell, allowing it to support the plant effectively.