(n)collective term for the outer parts of a flower consisting of the calyx and corolla and enclosing the stamens and pistils, Syn.perigone, floral envelope, perigonium, chlamys
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English (GCIDE) v.0.53Collaborative International Dictionary (GCIDE)
n. [ Pref. peri- + Gr. 'anqos flower: cf. F. périanthe. ] (Bot.) (a) The leaves of a flower generally, especially when the calyx and corolla are not readily distinguished. (b) A saclike involucre which incloses the young fruit in most hepatic mosses. See Illust. of Hepatica. [ 1913 Webster ]