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Glite Dictionary
amplexicaul leaf

amplexicaul leaf

9.9
A leaf whose base wraps around the stem
  • noun
  • /ˌæmplɛksɪˈkɔl liːf/
  • Specialized
translation icon : hoja amplexicaul
  • The stem of the plant is surrounded by an amplexicaul leaf at every node.

Examples

  • Some species of wildflowers are easily identified by their amplexicaul leaves.

  • The amplexicaul leaf wraps around the stem tightly.

  • In this botanical illustration, notice how the amplexicaul leaf clasps the central stem.

  • Many plants exhibit amplexicaul leaves for better support.

  • In this botanical illustration, notice how the amplexicaul leaf clasps the central stem.

  • The stem of the plant is surrounded by an amplexicaul leaf at every node.

  • Many plants exhibit amplexicaul leaves for better support.

Surface Forms

amplexicaul leaf singular
amplexicaul leaves plural

Morphology

amplexicaul + leaf

Although 'amplexicaul' is a rare botanical adjective, its meaning — a clasping or stem-encircling quality — combines directly with 'leaf' to yield 'a leaf whose base clasps or encircles the stem.' The adjective + noun composition follows a regular, compositional pattern, so a B1 learner who knows the meanings of both constituents would be able to infer the MWE meaning.

Etymology

Amplexicaul leaf describes a leaf whose base looks like it is hugging the plant's stem. The leaf wraps around the stem, so it 'clasps' or 'encircles' it.