n. [ L. pistillum, pistillus, a pestle: cf. F. pistil. See Pestle. ] (Bot.) The seed-bearing organ of a flower. It consists of an ovary, containing the ovules or rudimentary seeds, and a stigma, which is commonly raised on an elongated portion called a style. When composed of one carpel a pistil is simple; when composed of several, it is compound. See Illust. of Flower, and Ovary. [ 1913 Webster ]
a. (Bot.) Growing on, or having nature of, the pistil; of or pertaining to a pistil. Barton. [ 1913 Webster ]
a. (Bot.) Having a pistil or pistils; -- usually said of flowers having pistils but no stamens. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. [ L. pistillum a pestle. ] The act of pounding or breaking in a mortar; pestillation. [ Obs. ] Sir T. Browne. [ 1913 Webster ]
‖n.;
a. [ Pistil + -ferous: cf. F. pistillifère. ] (Bot.) Pistillate. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. [ Pistil + Gr.