cupule

noun

cu·​pule ˈkyü-(ˌ)pyül How to pronounce cupule (audio)
: 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

Examples of cupule in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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

Time Traveler
The first known use of cupule was in 1826

Dictionary Entries Near cupule

Cite this Entry

“Cupule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cupule. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

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