pelorism

English

Etymology

From Ancient Greek πέλωρ (pélōr, “monster”) +‎ -ism.

Noun

pelorism (uncountable)

1. An abnormality in plants where the flower appears to revert to an earlier form.
   • 1903, Monthly review: Volume 10:

     In my last paper I dwelt chiefly on the remarkable phenomenon of pelorism and what can be learned from it as to the pace of organic change.

   • 1995, American Orchid Society bulletin: Volume 64, Issue 4:

     The extent of pelorism can be environmentally influenced. Should we be awarding peloric orchids without evidence of reproducible flowering?

Related terms

• peloric

Anagrams

• implores, sperm oil