ca·du·cous \kəˈd(y)ükəs\adjective Etymology: Latin caducus falling, inclined to fall, from cadere to fall — more at chance 1.: falling off easily or before the usual time — used especially of floral organs and opposed to persistent < the caducous calyx of a poppy > — compare deciduous, fugacious 2.law: subject to caducity : lapsed