COMPOUND LEAF Meaning and
Definition
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A compound leaf is a leaf structure that consists of multiple leaflets attached to a single stalk, known as the petiole. It is a type of leaf arrangement that stands in contrast to a simple leaf, which consists of just one blade attached directly to the stem.
The leaflets in a compound leaf are leaf-like structures that are usually arranged in a pinnate or palmate pattern. In a pinnate compound leaf, the leaflets are arranged along the sides of the petiole like the vanes of a feather, and in a palmate compound leaf, the leaflets spread out like the fingers of a hand. Each leaflet in a compound leaf is similar to a simple leaf, with its own midrib, veins, and sometimes serrated edges.
The arrangement of leaflets in a compound leaf provides several advantages. Firstly, having multiple leaflets allows the plant to maximize its surface area for photosynthesis, thereby enhancing its ability to capture sunlight for energy production. Furthermore, compound leaves often have a more delicate and aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to simple leaves, making them desirable in gardens and landscaping.
Compound leaves are found in various plant families, including but not limited to legumes, roses, and ash trees. They contribute to the diversity of leaf structures found in the plant kingdom, showcasing the incredible adaptability and resilience of plants in their pursuit of optimal growth and survival.
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A leaf the blade of which is divided into leaflets by divisions extending down to the mid-rib.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for COMPOUND LEAF
- xompound leaf
- vompound leaf
- fompound leaf
- dompound leaf
- cimpound leaf
- ckmpound leaf
- clmpound leaf
- cpmpound leaf
- c0mpound leaf
- c9mpound leaf
- conpound leaf
- cokpound leaf
- cojpound leaf
- comoound leaf
- comlound leaf
- com-ound leaf
- com0ound leaf
- compiund leaf
- compkund leaf
Etymology of COMPOUND LEAF
The word compound comes from the Latin word compositum, which means put together or composite. The word leaf originated from the Old English word leaf, which further originates from the Old Norse word lauf and the Proto-Germanic word laubaz. Thus, the term compound leaf combines the Latin root compositum with the Old English term leaf.
Similar spelling words for COMPOUND LEAF
- compound lens,
- confoundedly,
- compounding,
- compound lever,
- compound eye,
- compound pistil,
- compound protein,
- compound,
- compounded,
- compounds,
- compound number,
- confounded.
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