cypsela

noun

cyp·​se·​la
ˈsipsələ
plural cypselae
-ˌlē
: an achene developed from an inferior bicarpellary ovary fused with the calyx tube (as in the sunflower)

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek kypselē hollow vessel, chest, box; akin to Greek kyphos bent, crooked

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Cite this Entry

“Cypsela.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cypsela. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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