pappus


pap·pus

noun \ˈpa-pəs\
plural pap·pi\ˈpa-ˌpī, -ˌpē\

Definition of PAPPUS

: an appendage or tuft of appendages that crowns the ovary or fruit in various seed plants and functions in dispersal of the fruit

Origin of PAPPUS

Latin, from Greek pappos
First Known Use: circa 1704

Other Seed Plant Terms

aubergine, box, bramble, briar, composite, perpetual, pulse, trefoil

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: pappy
Previous Word in the Dictionary: pappose
All Words Near: pappus

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up pappus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Test Your Vocabulary

Take Our 10-Question Quiz

Name That Thing

Take our visual vocab quiz

Test Your Knowledge »

True or False?

A quick quiz about stuff worth knowing

Take It Now »

Join Us on FB & Twitter

Get the Word of the Day and More

Facebook | Twitter

Get Our Free Apps

Voice Search, Favorites,
Word of the Day, and More

iPhone | iPad | Android | More