Definition

Noun (Botany): A small, leaf-like appendage found at the base of a leaf stalk (petiole) or on the stem at the point where a leaf attaches. Stipules typically occur in pairs and are often shed early in the leaf's development.

Usage

The word "stipule" is a specific botanical term used to describe a particular plant structure. It is used when identifying, describing, or classifying plants. * The presence or absence of stipules is an important characteristic for plant identification. * Botanists noted that the stipules at the base of each leaf were finely toothed.

Examples

• The rose plant has prominent stipules where the leaf joins the stem.
• In some species, the stipules are modified into spines for protection.
• You can see the small, paired stipules at the base of the petiole in this specimen.

Advanced Usage

• Stipulate (adjective): Having stipules.
  • The family is characterized by stipulate leaves.
• Exstipulate (adjective): Lacking stipules.
  • The plant was identified as exstipulate.

Variants and Related Words

• Stipular (adjective): Of or relating to a stipule.
  • The stipular scar was visible on the stem.
• Stipuliform (adjective): Having the form or appearance of a stipule.

Synonyms

• Appendage (general term)
• Bract (a different type of modified leaf, often found near a flower)

Notes on Different Meanings

The word "stipule" has a single, precise meaning in botany. It is not commonly used in everyday language and has no idiomatic or phrasal verb forms.

Noun

1. a small leafy outgrowth at the base of a leaf or its stalk; usually occurring in pairs and soon shed