1. a thin membranous outgrowth at the junction of the leaf blade and sheath in grasses and related plants
Usage: botanical
2. a strap-shaped part or organ, especially a petal in certain composite flowers
Usage: botanical

Examples

• The botanist examined the ligule to help identify the grass species.
• Each ligule appeared as a small, translucent membrane where the leaf met the stem.
• The ligule serves as an important diagnostic feature in grass taxonomy.
• Students learned to look for the ligule when distinguishing between different grasses.
• The daisy’s white petals are actually ligules surrounding the central disc.
• Composite flowers typically have both ray ligules and disc florets.