staminode

/stæmɪˈnoʊd/

Definitions

1. noun

A small or vestigial stamen, especially one that is abortive or not fully developed.

“The plant’s staminodes were visible, but it seemed unable to produce viable flowers.”

2. noun

A modified or abortive stamen, especially one that has become petaloid or leaf-like.

“The staminode on the orchid’s flower was particularly striking.”

Synonyms

  • petaloid structure
  • stamen

Antonyms

  • fully developed stamen