ScienceAugust 19, 2026

bracts

BRAKTS

Definition

Modified, leaf-like structures located at the base of a flower or flower cluster, which can often be mistaken for petals.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'bractea', meaning 'a thin plate of metal'. It was adopted into botanical science in the 18th century to describe these specialized leaves.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the petal-like structures surrounding the tiny flowers within a flannel flower's head, helping readers visualize their specific anatomy.

Keen to plant native flowers in your garden? We asked an expert for tips

Read the full article ↗

ABC News & Headlines – Australian Broadcasting Corporation

Related words

adobe

A type of sun-dried building material made of clay, sand, and organic binders, often used…

Science

apophenia

The tendency to perceive meaningful connections and patterns within random, unrelated, or…

Science

banksia

A genus of Australian native trees and shrubs characterized by their unique, large, often…

Science

biogel

A gelatinous substance derived from biological materials that is engineered to absorb…

Science

ceratobranchial

A specific slender, rod-like bone found in the hyoid apparatus, which is the structure…

Science

chromatography

A laboratory technique used for the separation of a mixture by passing it in solution or…

Science

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.