Pronunciation: [sɪlˈiːk] (IPA) 
The word "silique" is spelled with an "i" after the "l" because it comes from the Latin word "siliqua," which also has an "i" after the "l." In IPA phonetic transcription, "silique" would be pronounced as /səˈlik/ with the stress on the second syllable. This word is commonly used in botany to refer to the long, narrow, two-valved fruit of plants in the mustard family, such as radishes or cabbages.
A silique refers to a distinctive type of fruit structure found exclusively in plants belonging to the mustard family (Brassicaceae). Botanically termed as a dry dehiscent fruit, a silique is characterized by its elongated, cylindrical shape that develops from the ovary of a flower after fertilization. It typically consists of two fused carpels, forming a long, narrow, and flattened structure with two parallel walls.
The key feature of a silique is its unique method of seed dispersal. Upon maturation, the silique splits open along two seams, known as the replum, to release the seeds contained within. Consequently, the silique functions as a capsule, facilitating the wide dispersal of numerous small seeds by wind, water, or mechanical contact.
Siliques are most commonly observed in plants of the Brassicaceae family, including crops such as cabbage, broccoli, radish, and rapeseed. These plants often exhibit numerous siliques, and they play a significant role in reproductive success. Silique development is a result of the fusion of the lower part of the ovary with the receptacle, while the upper part of the ovary remains free. This unique structure allows for efficient seed production and dispersal, contributing to the survival and proliferation of the species.
In summary, a silique is a dry fruit structure found in plants of the Brassicaceae family, characterized by its elongated cylindrical shape with two parallel walls. It splits open at maturity to release the numerous small seeds it contains, aiding in the dispersal and propagation of the plant species.
A long slender pod, like that of the mustard plant.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In bot., a pod-like fruit, consisting of two long cells, divided by a partition, having seeds attached to each side, as in the cabbage, the turnip, and wallflower seed-pods.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "silique" comes from the Latin word "silicula", which means "small pod" or "little seed vessel". It is derived from the Latin word "silix", meaning "willow". The term "silique" was first used in English in the mid-18th century to specifically refer to a type of dry fruit found in plants of the mustard family (Brassicaceae).
