Silique

Alternative forms

• siliqua

Origin

Latin siliqua a pod or husk, a very small weight or measure: compare French silique.

Full definition of silique

Noun

1. (botany) A long dry fruit (seed capsule), length more than twice the width, typical to cruciferous plants and consisting of two fused carpels that separate when ripe.

Related terms

• siliquose, siliquous

Usage notes

A short silique-like fruit is called silicle, silicula or silicule.