PYXIDIUM Meaning and
Definition
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A pyxidium is a botanical term that refers to a small, cylindrical, or cup-shaped fruit structure found in certain plants. It is derived from the Greek word "pyxis," meaning "box" or "receptacle." The pyxidium can also be referred to as a pyxis fruit or pyxis capsule.
The pyxidium is a characteristic feature of many plants in the family Capparaceae, as well as some members of the families Salvadoraceae and Loasaceae. It is observed in both herbaceous and woody plants. The structure of the pyxidium typically consists of a narrow stalk-like base, called a gynophore, which supports the fruit capsule.
The fruit capsule of a pyxidium is usually divided into two main sections: the lower, rounded calyx lobes and the upper, narrower capsule lobes. In some plants, the capsule lobes may detach from the base to release the seeds held inside. The pyxidium often opens at the top via a lid-like cover, known as an operculum, which can be shed or detach to expose the seeds for dispersal.
The pyxidium serves as a protective structure for the developing seeds within, aiding in their dispersal and ensuring their survival until they are ready to be released into the environment. It is one of the various fruit types that have evolved in plants, showcasing the remarkable adaptability and diversity found in the plant kingdom.
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In botany, a capsule fruit with transverse dehiscence, the top separating like a lid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In bot., a fruit dividing into an upper and lower half, the former acting as a kind of lid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PYXIDIUM
- oyxidium
- lyxidium
- -yxidium
- 0yxidium
- ptxidium
- pgxidium
- phxidium
- puxidium
- p7xidium
- p6xidium
- pyxudium
- pyxjdium
- pyxkdium
- pyxodium
- pyx9dium
- pyx8dium
- pyxisium
- pyxixium
- pyxicium
Etymology of PYXIDIUM
The word "pyxidium" has its roots in Ancient Greek. It is derived from the Greek word "pyxis", which means "box" or "receptacle". The "-idium" suffix is a diminutive form, meaning a small or little version. Therefore, "pyxidium" literally translates to "small box" or "little receptacle". In botanical terminology, pyxidium refers to a small capsule or fruit with a lid or cap that opens to release its seeds.
