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Sepals: meaning, definitions and examples

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sepals

 

[ ˈsɛpəlz ]

Noun
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.

Etymology

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.