polysepalous
Definition
Adjective (Botany): Having a calyx composed of distinct, separate sepals (i.e., the sepals are not fused together).
Usage Examples
- (The flower has sepals that are not joined.)
- (The classification is based on the sepals being distinct.)
Advanced Usage
- "polysepalous calyx": a calyx where the sepals are free (not united).
- A polysepalous calyx is common in many families of flowering plants. (The sepals are separate in such a calyx.)
Variants and Related Words
- Polysepalous (adj) has no common derived forms; it is a technical term used primarily in botany.
- Sepal (n): one of the individual parts of the calyx of a flower.
- Each sepal protects the flower bud before it opens. (A sepal is a leaf-like structure.)
- Calyx (n): the collective term for all the sepals of a flower.
- The calyx may be gamosepalous (fused) or polysepalous (separate). (The calyx refers to the whole ring of sepals.)
Synonyms
- Separate-sepaled: having sepals that are not fused.
- Dialysepalous: a synonym for polysepalous, meaning the sepals are free.
Antonyms
- Gamosepalous: having sepals that are fused or united together.
Related Idioms
- This is a technical botanical term; no common idioms use "polysepalous."