amplexicaul

[ am-plek-si-kawl ]

adjective

, Botany.

1. clasping the stem, as some leaves do at their base.

amplexicaul

/ æmˈplɛksɪˌkɔːl /

adjective

1. (of some sessile leaves, stipules, etc) having an enlarged base that encircles the stem

Word History and Origins

Origin of amplexicaul¹

1750–60; < New Latin amplexicaulis, equivalent to Latin amplex ( us ) embrace ( amplexus ) + -i- -i- + caulis stem ( cole )

Word History and Origins

Origin of amplexicaul¹

C18: from New Latin amplexicaulis, from Latin amplectī to embrace + caulis stalk

Example Sentences

Amplexicaul, in botany, said of a leaf that embraces and nearly surrounds the stem.

From Project Gutenberg