cupule

noun

cu·​pule ˈkyü-(ˌ)pyül 

: a cup-shaped anatomical structure: such as

a

: an involucre characteristic of the oak in which the bracts are indurated and coherent

b

: an outer integument partially enclosing the seed of some seed ferns

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Until now, researchers had focused on a fossil cupule plant called Caytonia, discovered in Yorkshire, U.K., as the closest relative to angiosperms. —Elizabeth Pennisi, Science | AAAS, 26 May 2021

The team found that, as with the outer seed coat in modern angiosperm seeds, the cupule tissue curved around the developing seeds. —Elizabeth Pennisi, Science | AAAS, 26 May 2021

Word History

Etymology

New Latin cupula, from Late Latin, diminutive of Latin cupa tub — more at hive

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above