Decemfoliolate

/ˌdɛsɛmfəˈlɪəleɪt/ adjective

Definition

Having a compound leaf divided into exactly ten small leaflets.

Etymology

From Latin 'decem' (ten) + 'foliolum' (small leaf, diminutive of folium) + '-ate'. This botanical term distinguishes between leaves (folium) and leaflets (foliolum).

Kelly Says

The distinction between 'decemfoliate' (10 leaves) and 'decemfoliolate' (10 leaflets on one compound leaf) shows how precise botanical Latin can be—scientists needed different words for totally different leaf structures.

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