vexillum

[ vek-sil-uhm ]

noun

, plural vex·il·la [vek-, sil, -, uh].

1. a military standard or flag carried by ancient Roman troops.
2. a group of men serving under such a standard.
3. video frequency.
4. Also vex·il [] Botany. the large upper petal of a papilionaceous flower.
5. Ornithology Rare. the web or vane of a feather.

vexillum

/ vɛkˈsɪləm /

noun

1. ornithol the vane of a feather
2. botany another name for standard

Derived Forms

• ˈvexillate, adjective
• ˈvexillary, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of vexillum¹

1720–30; < Latin: standard, flag, diminutive from the base of vēlum sail ( veil )

Word History and Origins

Origin of vexillum¹

C18: from Latin: banner, perhaps from vēlum sail

Example Sentences

The difference in the size of the cells on the calyx under the vexillum right down to the common peduncle is conspicuous.

From Project Gutenberg

When I saw the odd shape of the base of the vexillum, I concluded that it must have some meaning, but little dreamt what that was.

From Project Gutenberg

The barbs and barbules, together with the rachis, constitute the vexillum or vane of the feather.

From Project Gutenberg

The Standard or Banner (Vexillum), the large upper petal which is external in the bud and wrapped around the others.

From Project Gutenberg

Jussit prœterea Gabrielem vexillum laudis supra Meccanum Templum explicare.

From Project Gutenberg