calyx

noun

ca·​lyx ˈkā-liks How to pronounce calyx (audio)
also
ˈka- How to pronounce calyx (audio)
plural calyxes or calyces ˈkā-lə-ˌsēz How to pronounce calyx (audio)
 also  ˈka-
1
: the usually green outer whorl of a flower consisting of separate or fused sepals
2
: a cuplike division of the renal pelvis surrounding one or more renal papillae
3
: a cup-shaped animal structure (such as the body wall of a crinoid)

Examples of calyx in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Over time leaves gracefully cascade down with bright red flowers emerging from dark maroon calyxes. — Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 5 Mar. 2024 Still, the one that has come to rule them all is the Japanese eggplant, slender and glossy, presented at an upward tilt, a regal baton to be handed off to the next runner, with the green cap of its calyx perched perkily on top. — Ligaya Mishan Melody Melamed, New York Times, 23 Nov. 2022

Word History

Etymology

Latin calyc-, calyx, from Greek kalyx — more at chalice

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of calyx was in 1660

Rhymes for calyx

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calyx
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Cite this Entry

“Calyx.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calyx. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

calyx

noun
ca·​lyx ˈkā-liks How to pronounce calyx (audio)
 also  ˈkal-iks
plural calyxes or calyces ˈkā-lə-ˌsēz How to pronounce calyx (audio)
 also  ˈkal-ə-
: the usually green or leafy outside part of a flower consisting of sepals

Medical Definition

calyx

noun
ca·​lyx
variants also calix
ˈkā-liks also ˈkal-iks
plural calyxes or calyces
ˈkā-lə-ˌsēz also ˈkal-ə-
 also calices
: a cuplike division of the renal pelvis surrounding one or more renal papillae

More from Merriam-Webster on calyx

Nglish: Translation of calyx for Spanish Speakers

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