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Glite Dictionary
🗳️ A small container 🌱 A seed capsule
pyxis

pyxis

9.9
A dry seed capsule with a top that falls off to release seeds
  • noun
  • /ˈpɪksɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : cápsula
  • In some species, the seeds are dispersed when the pyxis opens and its lid drops away.

Examples

  • The pyxis is easily recognized by its characteristic capsule structure resembling a box with a removable lid.

  • Botanists use the term pyxis to describe fruit in which the top separates to release seeds.

  • The pyxis opened to release its seeds.

  • In botany, a pyxis is an important fruit type.

  • Botanists use the term pyxis to describe fruit in which the top separates to release seeds.

  • In some species, the seeds are dispersed when the pyxis opens and its lid drops away.

  • The pyxis is easily recognized by its characteristic capsule structure resembling a box with a removable lid.

Synonyms

capsule
vspyxis
  • Specialized
6 7.0

A dry plant part that splits open to let out seeds or spores

is the specific type where the upper part falls off rather than just opening
seedpod
vspyxis
1 2.7

A pod that contains seeds and opens when ripe

is the kind with the top detaching to free seeds not mainly legumes
pyxidium
vspyxis
  • Specialized
9.9

A seed pod whose top falls off to let seeds out, like in a plantain

has identical meaning but is the alternate technical form

Surface Forms

pyxis singular
pyxides plural

Etymology

Pyxis is also used in botany from the same Greek pyxos 'box' idea to name a dry fruit that opens when the top part falls off. So thinking of a little 'box' with a removable 'lid' helps remember that a botanical pyxis releases its seeds when the lid drops away.