radicle

noun

rad·​i·​cle ˈra-di-kəl 

1

: the lower part of the axis of a plant embryo or seedling:

a

: the root of a plant embryo

b

: hypocotyl

c

: the hypocotyl and the root together

2

: radical sense 4

Word History

Etymology

Latin radicula, diminutive of radic-, radix

First Known Use

1671, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

radicle

noun

rad·​i·​cle ˈrad-i-kəl 

1

: the rootlike beginning of an anatomical vessel or part

the radicle of a vein

2

: radical