Definition

A small, thin, chaff-like part of a plant that surrounds and protects the flower, especially in grasses and some other plants.

Example

The palea helps to protect the delicate flower inside it.

Conversation

Have you seen the palea on that grass plant in the garden?

Yeah, I noticed it looks really interesting up close.

I read that the palea helps protect the flower inside.

That makes sense! It's cool how every part has a purpose.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Palea comes from Latin 'palea' (meaning chaff or husk). The word refers to the dry, scaly protective casings of seeds or grains, which are often discarded during the process of threshing.

Memory Tip

Think of 'palea' as the 'chaff' or 'husk' that protects seeds, helping you remember that it refers to the outer covering of grains.

Visually Confused Words