Definition

Describing a flower or plant that has one or more female reproductive parts but lacks male parts.

Example

The pistillate flowers of the plant are essential for producing seeds.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a pistillate flower before?

Yeah, I think they look really unique without stamens.

I love how interesting pistillate plants can be in a garden.

Absolutely! They add a nice variety to the landscape.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pistillate → It is formed from "pistillum" (meaning pestle) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating a state or condition). The word refers to a flower that has a pistil, which is the female reproductive part, resembling the shape of a pestle.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pestle' ('pistillum') which is used to crush or grind, and remember that 'pistillate' describes flowers that have the essential female part, much like how a pestle is essential in grinding.

Visually Confused Words