What does sepal mean?
A sepal is one of the modified leaves that form the calyx, or outer protective structure, of a flower. Sepals usually occur beneath the petals and enclose the flower while it is still in bud, although they may be green, petal-like, fused together, or otherwise specialized. Once a flower opens, the sepals can spread, remain in place, or fall away, depending on the species. Botanists distinguish sepals from petals by their position and typical function rather than by color alone, since some flowers have sepals that closely resemble petals. The word is most familiar from detailed descriptions of flowers and from the familiar pairing “sepals and petals.” It is also useful in distinguishing the structure that protects a bud from the parts that advertise the flower to pollinators.
nounOne of the leaflike parts of a flower that form the calyx, usually beneath the petals and enclosing the bud. The sepals protect the developing flower and may be green, petal-like, fused, or modified in special ways.
- A leaflike floral part forming the calyx, typically below the petals and enclosing the flower bud.
"The flower opened at dawn, revealing five white petals surrounded by five green sepals."
"The green sepals curled around the bud until it was ready to open."
"In this species, the sepals fall away as soon as the bright petals unfold."
The plural is standard when referring to the parts collectively, especially when describing a flower's structure.
"The flower has five sepals and five white petals."
Sepals are flower's protective outer layer, often mistaken for petals even though they usually sit beneath them.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sepal come from?
The English word comes from French sépal, a botanical term derived from Ancient Greek skēpē, meaning “covering” or “shelter.” The term was used for the outer parts of a flower, reflecting their protective function around the bud. In modern botanical usage, the sepals collectively constitute the calyx, although the singular sepal remains the standard term for an individual part.
Related word forms
How sepal is actually used
Usually plural, though the singular form is standard when referring to an individual floral part. In botanical descriptions, the sepals collectively form the calyx. The word is primarily used in botany and horticulture.