angiocarpous

adjective

an·​gio·​car·​pous

variants or angiocarpic

-pik

1

: having or being fruit enclosed within an external covering

the acorn in its cupule is an angiocarpous fruit

compare pyrenocarpic

2

: having the hymenium enclosed or immersed in the thallus

—used of some lichens and fungi compare gymnocarpous

angiocarpy

ˈ⸗⸗⸗ˌkärpē

noun

plural -es

Word History

Etymology

angi- + -carpous, -carpic

First Known Use

1821, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now