Glossary

Category: V

  • Varnished

    (Of surface) shiny.  

  • Variety

    Infraspecific taxon below the rank of subspecies and above that of form with one or several distinguishing characters, not geographically disjunct from other conspecific taxa. A subdivision of a species ranking lower than a subspecies. A plant that has minor but noticeable differences from the others of the same species, such as in a horticultural…

  • Variegated

    Variegated

    (Of leaves) irregularly coloured with two or more colours. Differently colored areas, as in a leaf with streaks, marks, or patterns of various colors on its surface. A botanical term meaning formed from or patched with an assortment of colors. Variegated plants have patterns of other colors as well as green on their leaves, and…

  • Variation

    Minor difference. The systematic alteration of the resistance training program over time to allow for the training stimulus to remain optimal. It has been shown that systematic program variation is very effective for long-term progression. In anatomy and physiology, differences between individuals of the same species caused by either environmental or hereditary factors. A change…

  • Variant

    Term used for one aspect of the variation of a taxon which lacks a formal nomenclatural status. Different from the statistical average. That which is different from the characteristics of the other organisms or entities in a particular classification, especially a disease, species, or physical appearance. This passage refers to a broad category that encompasses…

  • Variable

    Not constant in appearance. Procedures based on actual values in terms of numerical scales in contrast to attributes where each item is designated merely as acceptable or unacceptable. A concept defined so that its magnitude can be measured. A characteristic (e.g. morbidity, life style, or habit) relating to a single individual or group. Qualitative variables…

  • Valvule

    (In grasses) the upper bract in each grass floret.  

  • Valvular

    Relating to valves [unusual term].  

  • Valve

    One of the parts produced by the splitting of a capsule or pod when ripe. One of the parts into which a dehiscent fruit splits. One of the pieces into which a pod splits. The part of a fruit, covering the seeds, that opens or falls off. A structure that permits flow of fluid in…

  • Valvate

    (Of sepals or petals in bud) meeting exactly at the margins without overlapping. Margins of calyx or corolla not overlapping. Said when parts meet each other by their edges, without over-lapping.