Endothecial

/ˌɛndoʊˈθiːʃəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or consisting of endothecium, the inner fibrous layer of an anther in flowering plants.

Etymology

From endothecium + -al (Latin suffix). Key term in plant anatomy since the 1800s.

Kelly Says

The endothecial layer in flower anthers is made of special spiral-walled cells that work like tiny springs—when humidity drops, they shrivel and pop the anther open to spread pollen!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.