siliqua

[ sil-i-kwuh ]

noun

, plural sil·i·quae [sil, -i-kwee].

1. a silver coin of the later Roman Empire, the 24th part of a solidus, first issued by Constantine.

siliqua

/ sɪˈliːkwə; sɪˈliːk; ˈsɪlɪk; ˈsɪlɪˌkwəʊs; ˌsɪlɪˈkweɪʃəs; ˈsɪlɪkwə; ˈsɪlɪkwəs /

noun

1. the long dry dehiscent fruit of cruciferous plants, such as the wallflower, consisting of two compartments separated by a central septum to which the seeds are attached

Derived Forms

• siliquaceous, adjective
• siliquose, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of siliqua¹

1885–90; < Late Latin; Latin: pod, carob tree

Word History and Origins

Origin of siliqua¹

C18: via French from Latin siliqua a pod

Example Sentences

The scientific name derives from the clam’s appearance — siliqua being Latin for “pod,” and patula for “open” or “gaping.”

From Seattle Times

When the fruit is several times longer than broad it is known as a siliqua, as in stock or wallflower; when about as long as broad, a silicula, as in shepherd’s purse.

From Project Gutenberg

Each of these they again divide into twenty-four units of four siliquae each, which they call grenlins.

From Project Gutenberg

Here, too, may also be mentioned the presence of an adventitious siliqua within the ordinary one attached along the same line as the ovules, and partially divided by a replum into two cavities.

From Project Gutenberg

The Cassia fistula of Ceylon resembles it somewhat in flavour, but the Ceratonia siliqua is free from the medicinal properties of the former tree.

From Project Gutenberg