Pronunciation: [lˈɪɡjʊlˌe͡ɪtɪd] (IPA) 
The word "ligulated" is spelled with the letters L-I-G-U-L-A-T-E-D. In phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /ˈlɪɡjʊleɪtɪd/. The "lig-" prefix is derived from the Latin word "ligula," meaning "little tongue." The "-ulated" suffix is formed through the addition of "-ate" and "-ed." The word is typically used in botany to describe a leaf that has a ligule or a tongue-shaped appendage at the base of the leaf blade.
Ligulated is an adjective used to describe the shape or form of an object, particularly in the context of plants and natural sciences. The term derives from the Latin word "ligula," meaning "strap" or "band," referring to a narrow, elongated shape resembling a strap or ribbon.
In botany, ligulated is often used to describe the shape of certain flower heads or florets. A ligulate flower head consists of numerous individual tubular flowers that are fused together at their base to form a flat, strap-shaped structure. These florets are typically found in the daisy family (Asteraceae) and are commonly seen in composite flowers, where the outer florets have elongated, strap-like corollas, while the inner florets tend to be shorter and tubular.
Furthermore, ligulated can also refer to the leaves of certain plants, specifically those that have elongated, strap-like structures. These leaves are often narrow, erect, and have a long, tapering shape, resembling a ribbon or a strap. Ligulated leaves are frequently observed in grasses, sedges, lilies, and other similar plant families.
Overall, the term ligulated is utilized to describe structures with a strap-shaped or ribbon-like appearance, whether they are flower heads, florets, or leaves. Its usage is primarily found in the field of botany and other natural sciences, where accurate and specific descriptions of plant forms are essential for identification and classification purposes.
Like a bandage or strap; in bot., applied to strap-shaped florets, as in the dandelion.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "ligulated" is derived from the Latin word "ligula", which means "little tongue" or "strap". It is a combination of "ligula" and the suffix "-ate", which is often used to form adjectives.
