What is "calycle"

Calicle \Cal"i*cle\, n. [L. caliculus a small cup, dim. of calicis, a cup. Cf Calycle.] (Zo["o]l.)

1. One of the small cuplike cavities, often with elevated borders, covering the surface of most corals. Each is formed by a polyp.

2. One of the cuplike structures inclosing the zooids of certain hydroids. See Campanularian. [Written also calycle. See Calycle.]

n. (context botany English) A row of small bracts at the base of the calyx, on the outside.

1. n. a group of bracts simulating a calyx as in a carnation or hibiscus [syn: epicalyx, false calyx, calyculus]

2. a small cup-shaped structure (as a taste bud or optic cup or cavity of a coral containing a polyp) [syn: calyculus, caliculus]