stipule

noun

stip·​ule ˈsti-(ˌ)pyül How to pronounce stipule (audio)
: either of a pair of small, usually leaflike appendages borne at the base of the petiole in many plants

Examples of stipule in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Remove the lower leaves, any flaky stipules on the stem and blossoms. Betty Cahill, The Denver Post, 7 Apr. 2017

Word History

Etymology

New Latin stipula, from Latin, stalk; akin to Latin stipes tree trunk

First Known Use

circa 1793, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stipule was circa 1793

Dictionary Entries Near stipule

Cite this Entry

“Stipule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stipule. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

stipule

noun
stip·​ule ˈstip-yü(ə)l How to pronounce stipule (audio)
: either of a pair of small leaflike parts at the base of the petiole of a leaf in many plants see leaf illustration

More from Merriam-Webster on stipule

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!