ligule

noun

lig·​ule ˈli-(ˌ)gyül How to pronounce ligule (audio)
: a scalelike projection especially on a plant: such as
a
: a thin appendage of a foliage leaf and especially of the sheath of a blade of grass
b
: a ligulate corolla of a ray floret in a composite head

Word History

Etymology

New Latin ligula, from Latin, small tongue, strap, from lingere to lick — more at lick

First Known Use

circa 1847, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ligule was circa 1847

Dictionary Entries Near ligule

Cite this Entry

“Ligule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ligule. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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