Definition

Describing a flower that has many separate petals instead of petals that are joined together.

Example

The polypetalous structure of the rose makes it visually striking in gardens.

Conversation

Did you know that roses are typically polypetalous?

I didn’t know that! I always thought they just had a lot of petals.

Yeah, the separate petals give them that unique look.

That makes sense! I love how different flowers have their own styles.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polypetalous → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "petal" (from Greek "petalon", meaning leaf or petal) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of). The word describes a flower that has many petals, hence full of petals.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') petals ('petalon') to remember that 'polypetalous' refers to a flower with many petals.

Visually Confused Words