The word "caulicle" is spelled with six letters, including two vowels and four consonants. Its IPA transcription is /ˈkɔːlɪk(ə)l/. The first syllable is pronounced with the long "o" sound, followed by a short "i" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a soft "k" sound, then a short "i" sound, and finally the "əl" sound. "Caulicle" means the young shoot of a plant, often used in botanical research. Spelling it correctly ensures clear communication in scientific discourse.
A caulicle is a botanical term referring to the miniature stem or shoot that emerges from the seed during germination. It is the first sign of growth in a plant embryo. The caulicle develops from the radicle, which is the embryonic root of the plant and is typically thin and elongated in shape. As the seed absorbs water and swells due to imbibition, the radicle elongates and pushes the caulicle upwards, breaking open the seed coat.
The caulicle plays a crucial role in the initial establishment of a plant. It acts as the anchor for the developing seedling and provides support for the emerging aerial parts. As the caulicle elongates, it helps the young plant break through the soil surface, allowing the cotyledons (seed leaves) to unfurl and start photosynthesizing. This early growth phase enables the nascent plant to access sunlight, carbon dioxide, and other vital resources necessary for sustainable growth.
The term "caulicle" is derived from the Latin word "cauliculus," meaning "little stem." It is primarily used in the scientific study of plants, particularly in the field of botany, plant anatomy, and propagation. Understanding the development and function of the caulicle is essential for studying plant growth and development, as well as for horticultural purposes such as seed germination and nursery production.
In botany, a minute embryonal or rudimentary stem.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A short stem.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word caulicle is derived from the Latin word cauliculus, which means little stem or stalk. It is a diminutive form of the Latin word caulis, which means stem or stalk.