plumule

noun

plu·​mule ˈplü-(ˌ)myül 

1

: the primary bud of a plant embryo usually situated at the apex of the hypocotyl and consisting of leaves and an epicotyl

2

: a down feather

Illustration of plumule

• 1 hypocotyl
• 2 plumule
• 3 cotyledons

Word History

Etymology

New Latin plumula, from Latin, diminutive of pluma small soft feather — more at fleece

First Known Use

1727, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

plumule

noun

plu·​mule ˈplü-myü(ə)l 

: the shoot or bud of a plant embryo or seedling that is located between the cotyledons and grows into the stem and leaves