Definition

Relating to a type of plant fruit that splits open along the walls between its compartments to release seeds.

Example

The loculicidal fruits of the iris release their seeds when they mature.

Conversation

Did you know some plants have loculicidal fruits?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they split open along the capsule wall when they ripen.

That's interesting! I never knew fruits could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Loculicidal is formed from "loculus" (meaning small place or compartment) and "caedere" (meaning to cut). The word describes the act of cutting open a small compartment, typically referring to the way certain fruits release their seeds.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'small compartment' ('loculus') being 'cut' open ('caedere') to release seeds — that's what loculicidal means.

Visually Confused Words