calyptra

noun

ca·​lyp·​tra kə-ˈlip-trə How to pronounce calyptra (audio)
: a hoodlike structure in a plant
especially : haploid tissue forming a membranous hood over the capsule in a moss

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek kalyptra veil, from kalyptein to cover — more at hell

First Known Use

circa 1753, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of calyptra was circa 1753

Dictionary Entries Near calyptra

Cite this Entry

“Calyptra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calyptra. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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