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Sepals Meaning: Definition and Examples

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sepals

[ˈsɛpəlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

botanical structure

Sepals are the outer parts of a flower that protect the developing bud. They are often green, although they can sometimes be colorful in certain plants. Sepals serve as a protective layer for the petals when the flower is in bud form and support the flower once it blooms.

Synonyms

bract, calyx, flower part.

Examples of usage

  • The sepals of the rose are vibrant and shield the petals.
  • During the flowering process, the sepals open to reveal the petals.
  • The sepals fall off after the flower has bloomed.
  • In this species, the sepals are larger than the petals.

Interesting Facts

Botanical Features

  • Sepals usually look green and are the first part of a flower that develops.
  • They help shield the flower and its delicate parts from damage and cold weather.
  • In some flowers, sepals can be colorful and contribute to the flower's overall appearance.

Science

  • In botany, sepals are part of the flower's reproductive system, helping to enclose and protect the developing bud.
  • The number and arrangement of sepals can vary widely between different plant species, offering key identification features.
  • Sepals play a role in photosynthesis in some plants, allowing the plant to utilize sunlight even before blooming.

Art and Culture

  • Many artists include flowers, highlighting sepals as part of their natural beauty and structure.
  • In traditional Japanese art, flower arrangements often emphasize the role of sepals in creating balance and harmony.
  • Sepals can inspire designs in fashion and home decor, symbolizing elegance and the beauty of nature.

Origin of 'sepals'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sepals' comes from the Latin 'sepalum,' which combines 'sep' meaning 'to cover' and 'alum' meaning 'leaf.'
  • It was first used in botanical terminology in the early 19th century as the study of plants became more formalized.
  • The concept of sepals is part of the broader classification of flower structures in botany.

The word 'sepal' originated in the mid-19th century from the modern Latin term 'sepalum', which is a combination of the Latin word 'sepala', meaning 'covering', and 'pala', referring to 'pale or blade'. Its usage in botany defines a clear structural part of a flower, contributing to the understanding of plant morphology and reproductive systems. The concept of sepals allows botanists and horticulturists to categorize and identify various species based on floral characteristics and adaptations, serving both ecological and aesthetic functions. Historically, discussions about flowers, including sepals, date back to ancient civilizations where plants were studied for medicinal purposes and later in the context of agricultural practices.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,131, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.