How Do You Spell EPICALYX?

Pronunciation: [ˈɛpɪkˌalɪks] (IPA)

Epicalyx is a botanical term which refers to a series of bracts that are found just below or at the base of the calyx in certain plants, such as the mallow family. The spelling of this word is derived from the combination of the prefix "epi-" which means "upon" or "over", and "calyx", the Latin word for "cup" or "flower case". Using IPA phonetic transcription, we would spell it as /ˌɛpɪˈkeɪlɪks/, with emphasis on the second syllable.

EPICALYX Meaning and Definition

1. The term "epicalyx" refers to a specific floral structure found in some plant species. It is a whorl of bracts that surrounds or grows beneath the true calyx, which are the sepals of a flower. The epicalyx is usually located just below the calyx, serving as an additional protective layer or enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the flower.

   Epicalyces are commonly found in plants belonging to the Malvaceae family, such as hibiscus, malva, or marshmallow. These structures are generally green, leaf-like in appearance, and can closely resemble the sepals of the flower. However, they are generally smaller, thinner, and arranged in a different whorl.

   The epicalyx can serve several functions within the flower. It can help attract pollinators by providing an additional visual stimulus or by mimicking the true calyx. Additionally, it may function as a protective layer, safeguarding the developing flower bud from potential damage caused by environmental factors or predators.

   The size, shape, and number of bracts in the epicalyx can vary greatly among different plant species. Some plants may have a single bract or whorl enclosing the calyx, while others may have multiple layers of bracts. The epicalyx can be found in both annual and perennial plants, and its presence or absence can be an important characteristic for distinguishing between species.

2. In bot., a calyx formed either of sepals or bracts.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for EPICALYX

• wpicalyx
• spicalyx
• dpicalyx
• rpicalyx
• 4picalyx
• 3picalyx
• eoicalyx
• elicalyx
• e-icalyx
• e0icalyx
• epucalyx
• epjcalyx
• epkcalyx
• epocalyx
• ep9calyx
• ep8calyx
• epixalyx
• epivalyx
• epifalyx

Etymology of EPICALYX

The word epicalyx is derived from two Greek roots: epi, meaning upon or over, and kalyx, meaning cup or calyx (the outermost whorl of a flower). In botany, the term epicalyx refers to an additional whorl of bracts that forms outside the calyx in certain plants. The etymology of the word reflects the function of the structure as being situated upon the calyx.

Similar spelling words for EPICALYX

• ABKLEX,
• epicalix,
• epical,
• epochal,
• IBCLCS.

Plural form of EPICALYX is EPICALYCES OR EPICALYXES