Subscriber login


Forgot your password?

Library card login

Other

aril

Pronunciation: /ˈarɪl/
Definition of aril

noun

Botany
  • an extra seed covering, typically coloured and hairy or fleshy, e.g. the red fleshy cup around a yew seed.

Derivatives

arillate

adjective

Origin:

mid 18th century: from modern Latin arillus, of unknown origin; perhaps related to medieval Latin arilli 'dried grape stones'

aril in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of aril in the US English dictionary

Nearby words

  |  Cite

More words in this category

Oxford Dictionaries Pro

For Oxford's best resources for writers, plus thesaurus, audio, and 1.9m examples.

GET PRO ►

Shop for an Oxford dictionary
Find the perfect Oxford dictionary for you in our online shop.
SHOP NOW ►

Word of the day

cur

/ kəː /
noun
an aggressive or unkempt dog …