lily pad
Noun: A lily pad is the large, flat, floating leaf of a water lily plant. These leaves rest on the surface of calm freshwater, such as ponds and lakes.
The term "lily pad" is used to describe the specific floating leaf of aquatic plants in the water lily family (Nymphaeaceae). It is a common sight in still water habitats. - The frog sat on a lily pad, basking in the sun. - The pond's surface was covered with green lily pads. - We paddled our canoe carefully through the cluster of lily pads.
- Ecological Role: Lily pads provide important habitat, shade, and resting places for aquatic insects, frogs, and fish.
- Botanical Structure: The upper surface is waxy to repel water, while the underside is often purplish and has a long stem (petiole) connecting it to the root system in the mud below.
- Water lily (n): The entire aquatic plant that produces lily pads and flowers.
- Pad (n): In this context, it specifically refers to the flat, floating leaf. In other contexts, "pad" can mean a soft cushion or a writing tablet.
- Floating leaf: A general descriptive term.
- Pond lily leaf: A less common alternative name.
Note: "Lily pad" itself is not commonly used in idioms. However, it is a frequent element in descriptive imagery. - Like a frog on a lily pad: Used to describe someone or something sitting calmly or poised on a small, isolated spot. - The kayaker waited, balanced like a frog on a lily pad.
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floating leaves of a water lily
