cyphel
(ˈsaɪfəl)
[? ad. Gr. κύϕελλα pl. the hollows of the ears, clouds of mist: see next.]
1. Formerly a name for the Houseleek (Sempervivum); now a book-name for Cherleria sedoides.
| 1674–91 Ray N.C. Words 133 Cyphel, Houseleek. 1787 Withering Bot. Arrangem. (ed. 2) I. 462 Cherleria sedoides..Cyphel. 1883 G. Allen Mountain Tulip in Longm. Mag., The Scottish asphodel, the mossy cyphel. |
2. Adapted form of cyphella.