How Do You Spell LABELLUM?

Pronunciation: [lˈe͡ɪbə͡ləm] (IPA)

The word "labellum" is often misspelled due to its unusual combination of letters. It is a botanical term used to describe the lip or lower petal of an orchid flower. The correct spelling is /ləˈbɛləm/, with stress on the second syllable. The "e" before the double "l" is often missed, leading to incorrect spellings such as "labelum" or "labbellum". It is important to use the correct spelling in scientific contexts to avoid confusion and demonstrate attention to detail.

LABELLUM Meaning and Definition

1. The term "labellum" refers to a specialized structure found in certain flowers, particularly in orchids. It is the Latin word for "little lip" and is also known as the lip or lower petal. The labellum is usually distinctly different from the other petals of the flower, often having a unique shape, size, color, or pattern. It typically projects forward or downward from the flower, providing a landing platform for pollinators.

   The labellum plays a crucial role in attracting and guiding pollinators towards the reproductive organs of the flower. It often exhibits intricate markings, sometimes resembling an insect or forming a specific pattern or color combination to entice the pollinator. Additionally, it may contain nectar-secreting glands or special scent-producing tissues to further attract animals. The shape of the labellum also helps ensure that the pollinators brush against the reproductive structures of the flower, promoting successful pollination.

   Apart from its reproductive function, the labellum can serve as a protective structure, shielding the reproductive organs from rain or other environmental factors that could potentially hinder the process of pollination. In some orchid species, the labellum may also play a role in trapping and manipulating insects to aid in pollination.

   Overall, the labellum plays a vital role in the reproductive success of certain flowering plants, specifically orchids, by attracting, guiding, and manipulating pollinators for efficient transfer of pollen.

2. In botany, the irregularly shaped petal of an orchid.

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

3. In bot., a lip, or lower lip only; the third of the inner petals of an orchid.

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

Common Misspellings for LABELLUM

• kabellum
• pabellum
• oabellum
• lzbellum
• lsbellum
• lwbellum
• lqbellum
• lavellum
• lanellum
• lahellum
• labwllum
• labsllum
• labdllum
• labrllum
• lab4llum
• lab3llum
• labeklum
• labeplum
• labeolum
• labelkum

Etymology of LABELLUM

The word "labellum" is derived from Latin. It is the diminutive form of the Latin word "labrum", which means "lip" or "edge". In botanical terms, labellum specifically refers to the modified lip or petal of an orchid flower, which often has a distinct shape and coloration compared to the other petals. The term labellum is widely used in the scientific classification and study of orchids and has been adopted into English to refer to this specific botanical feature.

Plural form of LABELLUM is LABELLA