Testa

/ˈtɛstə/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The outer seed coat of a seed, especially in botany.

The testa of the seed protects the embryo from environmental hazards.

A protective outer layer or covering of an organism or structure.

The insect's testa provides a tough shield against predators.

In certain fruits, the hard outer layer surrounding the seed.

When you crack open the walnut, you see the hard testa encasing the nut.

Latin, meaning 'outer shell or covering'.

testa intacta

the seed coat remains unbroken.

breaking the testa

referring to the process of exposing the seed within.

testa thickness

the measure of the seed coat's robustness.

seed

the reproductive structure of a flowering plant.

embryo

the early developmental stage of a seed.

fruit

the mature ovary of a flowering plant, usually containing seeds.

A term used in specific gardening circles to refer to a tightly held belief.

He had a testa mentality about growing heirloom tomatoes.

An informal term among botanists for a protective layer in discussions.

We need to consider the testa when discussing seed viability.