1. The outer whorl of leaf-like structures (sepals) that enclose the petals of a flower.
Usage: Also spelled 'calyx' (more common modern spelling).; Botanical term.
2. A cup-shaped structure or cavity in an organism, especially in the kidney.
Usage: Medical/anatomical term.; Also spelled 'calyx'.

Examples

• The calix of the rose protects the delicate petals inside.
• In botany class, we learned that the calix is the first part of the flower to develop.
• The flower's calix was green and leafy.
• The kidney's calix collects urine produced by the nephrons.
• The calix and corolla together form the perianth of the flower.