coleoptile

noun

co·​le·​op·​tile ˌkō-lē-ˈäp-tᵊl How to pronounce coleoptile (audio)
: the first leaf of a monocotyledon forming a protective sheath about the plumule

Word History

Etymology

New Latin coleoptilum, from Greek koleon + ptilon down; akin to Greek pteron

First Known Use

circa 1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of coleoptile was circa 1866

Dictionary Entries Near coleoptile

coleoptilar

coleoptile

coleorhiza

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Coleoptile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coleoptile. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about coleoptile

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