trilocular

trilocular

The botanist examines a trilocular seed pod under a magnifying glass.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Having three compartments or chambers: In botany, "trilocular" describes a structure, especially a fruit or ovary, that is divided into three distinct internal cavities (locules).
    • Three-chambered: Used more generally in biology to refer to any organ or part that contains three separate spaces.
Usage Examples
  • (The fruit has three internal chambers.)
  • (The ovary is divided into three compartments.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Trilocular capsule": A type of dry fruit that splits open to release seeds, having three locules.
    • The trilocular capsule of the lily family is a common botanical feature. (A dry fruit with three chambers.)
  • "Trilocular heart": In some invertebrates, a heart with three chambers.
    • Certain mollusks possess a trilocular heart, which aids in efficient circulation. (A three-chambered heart.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Locule (n): a small cavity or compartment within an organ (e.g., in a fruit or anther).
    • Each locule of the trilocular fruit contains a single seed. (Each chamber holds one seed.)
  • Locular (adj): relating to or having locules.
    • The locular structure of the fruit is trilocular. (The compartmental structure has three chambers.)
Synonyms
  • Three-chambered: having three distinct cavities.
  • Tripartite: divided into three parts (though not always referring to chambers).
    • The trilocular ovary is a tripartite structure. (Divided into three sections.)
Related Idioms
  • (No common idioms exist for "trilocular," as it is a technical term primarily used in botany and biology.)