Pronunciation: [ɹˈadɪkə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "radicle" is spelled with the letter "i" between the "d" and "c" which may seem unusual. However, it is pronounced as /ˈrædɪkəl/, with the "i" as a short "i" sound. This spelling follows the Latin origin of the word "radicula" which means "little root". The "i" represents the letter "i" in the Latin root word. Despite the unique spelling, "radicle" is commonly used in botany to refer to the embryonic root of a plant.
A radicle is a term used in botany to refer to the first part of a seedling or embryo plant that emerges from the seed during germination. Also known as the embryonic root, the radicle is vital for the growth and development of the young plant. Typically, the radicle is the first organ to emerge from the seed, branching out into numerous smaller roots that anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and nutrients necessary for growth.
Functionally, the radicle plays a crucial role in initiating the growth of the entire plant. Through elongation, the radicle extends downward, establishing the primary root system that will be responsible for the plant's ability to efficiently gather resources from the environment. Moreover, the radicle acts as a stabilizing agent, securing the plant in the soil and preventing it from being easily uprooted.
In terms of physical characteristics, the radicle is typically thick and fleshy, often exhibiting a whitish or pale color. It is characterized by a protective root cap that shields the delicate tip from damage as the plant pushes through the soil during germination. Once the radicle has established its root system, the secondary roots, also known as lateral roots, begin to develop and further enhance the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
Overall, the radicle serves as a pivotal component in the development of a seedling into a fully grown plant, ensuring its survival and enabling it to thrive in its environment.
1. A rootlet or structure resembling one, as the radicle of. a vein, a minute veinlet joining with others to form a vein; or the radicle of a nerve, a nerve fiber which joins others to form a nerve 2. Radical (1 and 2).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In bot., the part of the embryo in the seeds of plants which becomes the root; the small roots of plants, or the fibres about the top roots.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "radicle" has its roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "radicula", which means "little root". In turn, "radicula" is derived from the Latin word "radix", meaning "root". The term "radicle" is used in botany to refer to the first part of a plant embryo that begins to grow into a root.
