Bot. [f. Gr. κάλυκ- CALYX + ἄνθεμ-ον flower + -Y.] The conversion, partial or complete, of sepals into the appearance of petals, as in the variety of primrose called Jack-in-the-box. Hence Calycanthemous a.
1880. Gray, Bot. Text-bk., 400. Calycanthemy. Name of the monstrosity in which the calyx imitates an exterior corolla.
