lyrate

[ lahy-reyt, -rit ]

adjective

1. Botany. (of a pinnate leaf ) divided transversely into several lobes, the smallest at the base.
2. Zoology. having the shape of a lyre, as the tail of certain birds.

lyrate

/ ˈlaɪərɪt /

adjective

1. shaped like a lyre
2. (of leaves) having a large terminal lobe and smaller lateral lobes

Derived Forms

• ˈlyrately, adverb

Other Words From

• ly·rate·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of lyrate¹

From the New Latin word lyrātus, dating back to 1750–60. See lyre, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of lyrate¹

C18: from New Latin lyrātus, Latin from lyra lyre

Example Sentences

The lowest leaves are not entire, but lyrate and pinnatified below to the mid-rib, with a terminal lobe.

From Project Gutenberg

The impalla is about the same size as the Grant's gazelle, but has horns of a lyrate shape.

From Project Gutenberg

Lyrate: lyre-shaped: cut into several transverse segments, and gradually enlarging towards the extremity.

From Project Gutenberg

The black-cock is a still larger bird; the male with a wonderful metallic, steel-blue plumage, and lyrate tail.

From Project Gutenberg

The horns are more or less lyrate, and generally developed in both sexes; there are frequently brushes of hair on the knees.

From Project Gutenberg