Hypocrateriform is a word with a complex spelling. It is pronounced /ˌhaɪpəʊkrəˈtɛrɪfɔːrm/ (hi-poh-kruh-terr-ih-form) and is used to describe a flower having a tube-shaped corolla with flaring lobes. The first syllable, hypo, means "under" or "less than," while the second syllable, crateri, refers to a bowl or cup-shaped object. The suffix -form indicates that the object is in the shape of the preceding word. Though difficult to spell and pronounce, hypocrateriform is a useful word for scientists and botanists in particular.
Hypocrateriform is an adjective that describes the shape or form of a flower whose corolla is tubular and flares out at the top in a broad, flat shape resembling a shallow bowl or saucer. The term "hypocrateriform" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "hypokratér" meaning bowl or dish, and "form" meaning shape or structure.
In botany, the term is typically used to describe certain types of flowers that exhibit this specific corolla shape, as opposed to other forms such as rotate (wheel-like), campanulate (bell-shaped), or urceolate (urn-shaped) corollas.
The hypocrateriform corolla shape is characterized by a slender, tubular base that gradually widens and flattens out at the top, resembling an open cup or dish. This shape is often found in flowers belonging to families such as the aster, nightshade, or bellflower family. Notable examples of flowers with hypocrateriform corollas include the morning glory, petunia, and nicotiana.
The hypocrateriform shape has both functional and aesthetic significance in flowers. The wide, flat top of the corolla provides a platform for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, or hummingbirds to land and access the flower's nectar. Additionally, the unique form adds visual appeal and contributes to the overall attractiveness of the flower, often making it a popular choice for ornamental displays in gardens and floral arrangements.
In bot., shaped like a saucer or salver.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hypocrateriform" is derived from two root words: "hypocrater" and "form".
The first root, "hypocrater", comes from the Greek word "hupokratḗr", meaning "undercup" or "saucepan". This is a combination of "hupó", meaning "under" or "below", and "kratēr", meaning "cup" or "bowl". In ancient Greece, a "kratēr" was a wide, deep vessel used for mixing wine, and the term "hupokratḗr" referred to a smaller cup placed under the krater to collect the mixed wine before it was served.
The second root, "form", refers to the Latin word "forma", meaning "shape" or "appearance".