(adj)(of a leaf shape) round, with the stem attached near the center of the lower surface rather than the margin (as a nasturtium leaf for example), Syn.shield-shaped
‖n.; pl.Peltæ. [ L., a shield, fr. Gr. pe`lth. ] 1. (Antiq.) A small shield, especially one of an approximately elliptic form, or crescent-shaped. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Bot.) A flat apothecium having no rim. [ 1913 Webster ]
{ } a. [ Cf. F. pelté. See Pelta. ] Shield-shaped; scutiform; (Bot.) having the stem or support attached to the lower surface, instead of at the base or margin; -- said of a leaf or other organ. -- Pel"tate*ly adv. [1913 Webster]