How Do You Spell SPADIX?

Pronunciation: [spˈadɪks] (IPA)

The word "spadix" is spelled with a "dix" at the end, even though it is pronounced with a "ks" sound. This is because the word comes from Latin, where "ix" was a common suffix used to form words. The IPA phonetic transcription of "spadix" is /ˈspeɪdɪks/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "ai" sound is pronounced like the word "say" and the "di" sounds like "dee". Overall, the spelling of "spadix" reflects its Latin roots and the evolution of the English language.

SPADIX Meaning and Definition

1. A spadix is a type of inflorescence characterized by a thick, fleshy axis or stalk, usually covered with tiny, closely arranged flowers. The word "spadix" is derived from the Latin word "spadix," which means "a palm branch" or "a pruning hook." The structure of a spadix typically consists of a central column, often cylindrical or elongated, bearing numerous flowers clustered closely together.

   Spadices are commonly found in various plant families, including Araceae, Arecaceae, and Liliaceae, among others. They are particularly notable in plants with tropical origins. The individual flowers of a spadix tend to be very small and often lack colorful petals, instead relying on other parts, such as stamens or bracts, for visual appeal. In many cases, a spadix is accompanied by a specialized leaf structure called a spathe, which encloses the spadix and serves to attract pollinators with its vibrant coloration.

   Spadices can exhibit a remarkable range of sizes and shapes. Some are compact and erect, while others take the form of pendulous or even spiraling structures. Due to their unique appearance, spadices are often recognized as distinctive reproductive features of certain plants. In addition to their role in pollination, spadices also serve as a site for fruit development after flowering has taken place.

   Overall, a spadix can be described as a densely packed, fleshy spike or stalk bearing numerous small flowers, typically found in plants with tropical or subtropical origins.

2. A fleshy spike enveloped in a bract called a spathe.

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

3. In bot., a form of inflorescence in which the flowers are closely arranged around a thick fleshy axis, and the whole wrapped in a large leaf, called a spathe, as in the arum.

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

Common Misspellings for SPADIX

• spandix
• spnadex
• spandax
• spatic
• spzadix
• spadx
• spaddix
• spedix
• scandix
• Seadi
• sotadix
• spadixe
• spaddo
• spaeig
• spadda
• spazim
• spcdit
• Spadil
• Spedil
• Exadik
• Seadio
• Spalim
• Spdiy
• Spanig
• Spaidin

Etymology of SPADIX

The word "spadix" originates from Latin, specifically from the word "spadix" which means "palm branch" or "shaft of a column". Latin itself borrowed the term from Ancient Greek, where it was known as "spadix" (σπάδιξ). The exact origin of the Greek word is uncertain, but some theories suggest it could come from the Greek verb "spadō" (σπάδω) which means "to draw" or "to lay waste". It is worth noting that a spadix refers to a type of inflorescence found in certain flowering plants, typically surrounded by a leaf-like structure called a spathe.

Plural form of SPADIX is SPADICES