How Do You Spell PULVINUS?

Pronunciation: [pˈʌlvɪnəs] (IPA)

The word "pulvinus" is spelled with a "p," "u," "l," "v," "i," "n," "u," and "s." The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈpʌlvɪnəs/. The stress falls on the first syllable, and the "u" is pronounced as a short "u" sound. The "v" is pronounced like a "v," and the "i" is pronounced like an "i" in "sit." The "n" is also pronounced like an "n" and the final syllable, "-us," is pronounced with a short "uh" sound. The word "pulvinus" refers to a cushion-like structure found in the stems of certain plants.

PULVINUS Meaning and Definition

1. The term "pulvinus" refers to a specialized plant structure that serves as a cushion or swelling at the base of a leaf or leaflet. It is commonly found in certain types of plants, particularly those that possess compound leaves. The pulvinus is typically located at the junction where a leaf or leaflet connects to the stem.

   Functionally, the pulvinus acts as a flexible joint, allowing the leaf or leaflet to move in response to various external stimuli such as light, touch, or changes in temperature. It is composed of a group of specialized cells that have the ability to rapidly change their turgor pressure. By adjusting the amount of water within these cells, the pulvinus can alter the angle and position of the leaf or leaflet in response to environmental cues.

   The ability of the pulvinus to control leaf movement is known as thigmonasty, and it plays a crucial role in various plant functions. For instance, in response to touch or wind, the pulvinus can cause the leaf to fold or droop, reducing water loss through transpiration and protecting delicate tissues. Furthermore, the pulvinus can enable the leaf to reorient itself to maximize light absorption, improving photosynthetic efficiency.

   Overall, the pulvinus is an important adaptation in plants that allows for leaf movement and response to environmental stimuli, ultimately aiding in their survival and success.

2. In bot., an enlargement like a swelling on the stem immediately below the leaf.

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

Common Misspellings for PULVINUS

• oulvinus
• lulvinus
• -ulvinus
• 0ulvinus
• pylvinus
• phlvinus
• pjlvinus
• pilvinus
• p8lvinus
• p7lvinus
• pukvinus
• pupvinus
• puovinus
• pulcinus
• pulbinus
• pulginus
• pulfinus
• pulvunus
• pulvjnus
• pulvknus

Etymology of PULVINUS

The word "pulvinus" has Latin origins. It is derived from the Latin word "pulvinus", meaning "cushion" or "pillow". In Latin, "pulvinus" referred to a cushion or a stuffed pillow used for sitting or reclining. In botany, the term "pulvinus" is used to describe a swollen or cushion-like structure found at the base of a leaf or leaflet, which allows for movement or changes in position.

Plural form of PULVINUS is PULVINI