phyllotaxis

noun phyl·lo·tax·is \ˌfi-lə-ˈtak-səs\

Definition of PHYLLOTAXIS

: the arrangement of leaves on a stem and in relation to one another

: the study of phyllotaxis and of the laws that govern it

phyl·lo·tax·is also phyl·lo·taxy \ˈfi-lə-ˌtak-sē\

New Latin phyllotaxis, from phyll- + -taxis

First Known Use: 1857

Next Word in the Dictionary: PhyllotretaPrevious Word in the Dictionary: phyllotaxicAll Words Near: phyllotaxis

What made you want to look up phyllotaxis? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears