arillus Definition
a specialized outgrowth from the funiculus (the stalk of an ovule) that partly or completely covers the seed.
Using arillus: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "arillus" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The arillus of nutmeg is used as a spice.
Example
The bright red aril covering the seed of the yew tree is poisonous.
Example
The arillus of the mace plant is used to make a spice.
Phrases with arillus
a thin layer of tissue that partially or completely covers the seed, but is not derived from the funiculus
Example
The arillode of the coffee bean is removed during processing.
having an aril or arillus
Example
The seeds of the pomegranate are arillate.
Origins of arillus
from Latin 'arilli', meaning 'dried grapes'
Summary: arillus in Brief
An 'arillus' [əˈrɪləs] is a specialized outgrowth from the funiculus that partly or completely covers the seed. It is commonly found in plants such as nutmeg, yew, and mace. The term 'arillus' is sometimes confused with 'arillode,' which is a thin layer of tissue that partially or completely covers the seed but is not derived from the funiculus. 'Arillate' is an adjective that describes something having an aril or arillus.
