AMPLEXICAUL Meaning and
Definition
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Amplexicaul is an adjective that describes the botanical characteristic of a leaf or stem that clasps or partly surrounds its supporting structure. Derived from the Latin word "amplexus," meaning to embrace or twine around, and "caulis," meaning stalk or stem, the term is used to describe the anatomy of plants, specifically in reference to their leaf morphology.
When a leaf or stem is amplexicaul, it exhibits a unique growth pattern where the base of the leaf or leaf stalk partially wraps around the stem or branch it originates from. This clasping behavior creates a tight and secure attachment between the leaf and its supporting structure. The amplexicaul nature of these leaves contributes to their stability and helps plants resist damage from wind or other external disturbances.
Amplexicaul leaves are commonly found in various plant species, especially in grasses, such as the Poaceae family, where this adaptation can be quite prevalent. This leaf structure is believed to have evolved as a strategy for plants to optimize their exposure to sunlight and enhance photosynthesis. The amplexicaul leaves can effectively increase the capturing surface area while minimizing shading and maximizing the absorption of sunlight.
In summary, the term amplexicaul refers to the botanical characteristic of a leaf or stem that encircles or partly enfolds its supporting structure. It is a feature that enhances the stability and sun exposure of plants, particularly in grasses and related species.
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In bot., embracing the stem over a large part of its circumference, as the base of a leaf.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for AMPLEXICAUL
- zmplexicaul
- smplexicaul
- wmplexicaul
- qmplexicaul
- anplexicaul
- akplexicaul
- ajplexicaul
- amolexicaul
- amllexicaul
- am-lexicaul
- am0lexicaul
- ampkexicaul
- amppexicaul
- ampoexicaul
- amplwxicaul
- amplsxicaul
- ampldxicaul
- amplrxicaul
- ampl4xicaul
Etymology of AMPLEXICAUL
The word "Amplexicaul" has a Latin origin. It is formed by combining the Latin word "amplexus", meaning "embrace", with the suffix -"caulis", which means "stalk". In Latin, "amplexus" is the past participle of "amplecti", which means "to embrace" or "to clasp". Therefore, "Amplexicaul" literally translates to "clasping the stalk" or "embrace the stem". This term is commonly used in botany to describe leaves that clasp or partially enclose the stem.
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