LIGULATE Meaning and
Definition
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Ligulate is an adjective used to describe the shape or structure of certain parts of a plant, particularly the flowers and leaves, that are characterized by having a long, strap-like or tongue-shaped appearance. The term originates from the Latin word "ligula" which translates to "little tongue."
In botany, ligulate flowers refer to those that have a flat or fan-shaped corolla with a tubular base and broad, flat lobes that resemble a tongue. These flowers are typically found in members of the Asteraceae or sunflower family, such as daisies and asters. Ligulate leaves, on the other hand, are narrow, elongated, and usually possess parallel veins, resembling a thin tongue or strap. They can be found in various plant families, including grasses, lilies, and some tropical evergreen species.
The ligulate shape in plants is generally considered an adaptation that provides certain advantages. For ligulate flowers, the broad lobes serve as a landing platform for pollinators, offering ample space for them to land and access the nectar or pollen. Ligulate leaves, on the other hand, often have a greater surface area, which allows for increased photosynthesis and absorption of sunlight.
Overall, the term "ligulate" is used to describe the elongated and tongue-shaped appearance of certain plant parts, serving as a convenient classification for scientists and enthusiasts alike.
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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.
Common Misspellings for LIGULATE
- kigulate
- pigulate
- oigulate
- lugulate
- ljgulate
- lkgulate
- logulate
- l9gulate
- l8gulate
- lifulate
- livulate
- libulate
- lihulate
- liyulate
- litulate
- ligylate
- lighlate
- ligjlate
- ligilate
- ligulatee
Etymology of LIGULATE
The word "ligulate" is derived from the Latin word "ligula", which means "a little tongue" or "a narrow strap". It comes from "lingua", meaning "tongue". In botany, "ligulate" refers to flowers that have strap-shaped petals or florets.
Similar spelling words for LIGULATE
- Laicality,
- leghold,
- legalaid,
- Loculate,
- Lucullite,
- LICLT,
- lowgold,
- laclede,
- liguloid,
- locality,
- Laccolite,
- Legault,
- legality,
- loculed,
- Lakelet,
- leglet,
- lowquality,
- LGALT,
- lechlade,
- LGLDH,
- localite.
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