What does "scale leaf" mean?

A small flat leaf resembling a scale, such as on many conifers.

What is a synonym for "scale leaf"?

Common synonyms include: cataphyll, prophyll, scale.

noun

noun ·Rare ·Advanced level

Noun

1
A small flat leaf resembling a scale, such as on many conifers.
"An individual flower that is subtended by a scale leaf at its junction with the stem of a plant; a rudimentary leaf."
2
a specialized leaf or bract that protects a bud or catkin wordnet
3
A small modified leaf, especially a colorless membranous one, such as on a rhizome or forming part of a bulb.

"An individual flower that is subtended by a scale leaf at its junction with the stem of a plant; a rudimentary leaf."