capsule
1 of 2nouna dry, hard covering type of fruit that splits open to release seeds, such as in poppy seeds or okra
A capsule is a type of dry fruit that develops from the ovary of a flower. It typically consists of several compartments, each containing seeds. Capsules can vary in size, shape, and texture depending on the plant species. When mature, capsules split open to release the seeds inside. This method of dispersal allows seeds to spread and germinate in new areas. Capsules are found in a wide range of plants, including poppies, irises, and milkweeds, and they play a vital role in the reproduction and propagation of these species.
- He crushed the dried capsules of the poppy flowers to extract the tiny seeds for culinary purposes.
- She collected capsules from various plants and carefully stored them for future study.
- The children collected capsules from the oak trees, playing a game to see whose capsule would burst open first.
a small container, especially in a round and cylindrical shape
a pressurized compartment within a spacecraft designed to carry astronauts, instruments, or cargo, capable of sustaining life in outer space
- The Apollo capsule safely carried astronauts to the Moon and back.
- The capsule's oxygen systems kept the crew alive during the mission.
- SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule docked autonomously with the ISS.
- The capsule was equipped with heat shields to withstand re-entry.
- Emergency protocols ensured the capsule could detach from the rocket if needed.
a pilot's seat in an airplane that can be forcibly ejected in the case of an emergency; then the pilot descends by parachute
a structure that encloses a body part
a shortened version of a written work
a dry dehiscent seed vessel or the spore-containing structure of e.g. mosses