ˈfiˌlōd noun
( -s )
Etymology: New Latin phyllodium, from Greek phyllōdēs like leaves (from phyllon leaf) + New Latin -ium
1. : a flat expanded petiole that replaces the blade of a foliage leaf, fulfills the same functions, and is analogous to but not homologous with a cladophyll — compare phylloclade
2. : the expanded and more or less depressed oral end of an ambulacrum in some sea urchins
• phyl·lo·di·al fə̇ˈlōdēəl adjective