How Do You Spell INVOLUCEL?

Pronunciation: [ɪnvˈɒluːsə͡l] (IPA)

The word involucel (IPA: ɪnˈvɒljuːsɛl) typically refers to a small involucre, which is a set of bracts or leaf-like structures that grow at the base of flowers. The spelling of the word involves the placement of the i before the o and the use of the letter c instead of the letter s after the o. This is because the word derives from the Latin word involucellum, which also uses the letter c. The word is commonly used in botany and plant sciences as a description of small, protective structures around flowers.

INVOLUCEL Meaning and Definition

1. An involucel is a botanical term that refers to a secondary or accessory whorl of bracts that encloses or surrounds a group or cluster of flowers. These bracts are usually arranged in an overlapping or imbricate manner, forming a protective cup-like or involute structure around the base of the inflorescence. While the primary function of an involucel is to protect the flowers, it can also serve other purposes such as attracting pollinators or aiding in seed dispersal.

   Involucels are commonly found in certain plant families, particularly in the Apiaceae family (also known as the carrot family). Species such as fennel, dill, and parsley often exhibit this characteristic feature, where the involucel surrounds the small flowers that are arranged in umbel-like clusters. The involucel bracts may be green, leaf-like structures that resemble small leaves, or they can be modified into colorful, petal-like structures that enhance the visual appeal of the inflorescence.

   In conclusion, an involucel is a specialized arrangement of bracts found in certain plants that surrounds a group of flowers. It serves to protect the flowers, but can also have additional functions depending on the species. Involucels are commonly observed in plants belonging to the Apiaceae family, and their unique morphology adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the inflorescence.

2. A secondary involucre surrounding the base of each flower in an involucrate flower cluster.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. In bot., the collection of bractlets or a sort of leaves surrounding a secondary or partial umbel or flower-head.

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

Common Misspellings for INVOLUCEL

• unvolucel
• jnvolucel
• knvolucel
• onvolucel
• 9nvolucel
• 8nvolucel
• ibvolucel
• imvolucel
• ijvolucel
• ihvolucel
• incolucel
• inbolucel
• ingolucel
• infolucel
• invilucel
• invklucel
• invllucel
• invplucel
• inv0lucel

Etymology of INVOLUCEL

The word "involucel" has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word "involucrum", which means a protective covering or wrapper. Involucrum itself comes from the verb "involvere", which means to wrap or roll up. In botany, an involucel refers to a small involuntary or secondary bract that is found beneath the main bract in a plant's inflorescence (flower cluster). The term was first used by the Swedish naturalist Carolus Linnaeus in the 18th century.

Plural form of INVOLUCEL is INVOLUCELS