Emily Dickinson Lexicon

CA-LYP'TER, n. [Gr. καλυπτηρ, a cover.]

The calyx of mosses, according to Linnæus; but not properly a calyx. It is a kind of vail, or cowl, which covers or is suspended over the tops of the stamens, like an extinguisher. – Milne. The calyptra of mosses is an appendage of the capsule or female flower. It at first closely invests the capsule, and its summit is the stigma. As the capsule approaches maturity, the calyptra is detached below, and appended to the stigma like a hood. – Cyc. Smith.