Definition of labellum in English:
labellum
nounPlural labellaləˈbɛləmləˈbɛləm
1Entomology
Each of a pair of lobes at the tip of the proboscis in some insects.
2Botany
A central petal at the base of an orchid flower, typically larger than the other petals and of a different shape.
Example sentencesExamples
- In attempting unsuccessfully to couple with the labellum the male pushes its head forward below the overhanging column.
- If insects smaller than the pollinator become trapped they may crawl out without pollination occurring or, if larger than the pollinator, they may stay trapped until the labellum opens again.
- The petals are lesser segments that typically envelop the column; the labellum is also generally small.
- The males then try to mate with the labellum or else lift it as they would a female wasp.
- These encounters can be quite violent and frequently result in the labellum being torn from the flower.
Origin
Early 19th century: from Latin, diminutive of labrum 'lip'.