Noun
/ˈɛmpti ɡluːm/
An empty glume refers to a type of bract (a specialized leaf) that is found in flowering plants, particularly in the inflorescence of grasses. In botanical terms, glumes are the two outermost bracts at the base of a spikelet in grasses. An "empty" glume is one that does not enclose a seed or flower.
This term is mainly used in botanical contexts, especially in discussions related to plant morphology and taxonomy. It is more frequently used in written contexts, such as scientific literature, botany textbooks, and academic papers, rather than in oral speech. The term is specific to botany and may not be common in everyday conversations.
Frequency of Use: Low to moderate in specialized fields such as botany.
The botanist noted that the empty glume structure was critical for determining the species of the grass.
Ботаник отметил, что структура пустой глумы была критична для определения вида травы.
Identifying the empty glume can provide insights into the plant's reproductive strategy.
Идентификация пустой глумы может дать представление о репродуктивной стратегии растения.
The empty glumes on the spikelet were characteristic of the species being studied.
Пустые глумы на колоске были характерны для изучаемого вида.
The term "empty glume" is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions in English due to its specificity within the field of botany. However, we can explore some related idiomatic expressions that incorporate the concept of "emptiness" or "absence."
Empty vessels make the most noise.
Пустые сосуды издают больше всего шума.
This idiom suggests that those with little knowledge or substance often speak the loudest.
Out of sight, out of mind.
С глаз долой, из сердца вон.
This phrase means that when something is no longer visible, it is easily forgotten.
All hat and no cattle.
Одни шляпы, а скота нет.
This expression describes someone who talks a lot about their achievements or abilities but has little to show for it.
A hollow victory.
Пустая победа.
This refers to a win that has little value or is achieved at a great cost.
Empty promises.
Пустые обещания.
This denotes commitments that are not followed through, lacking sincerity or intention.
The term "glume" originates from the Latin word gluma, which means "husk" or "outer covering," particularly relating to grains. The adjective "empty" comes from the Old English æmptig, meaning "having no content."
Synonyms:
- Hollow bract
- Vacant bract
- Unfilled bract
Antonyms:
- Filled glume
- Fertile glume
- Seeded glume