n. [ Gr. petalismo`s, fr. pe`talon a leaf: cf. F. pétalisme. ] (Gr. Antiq.) A form of sentence among the ancient Syracusans by which they banished for five years a citizen suspected of having dangerous influence or ambition. It was similar to the ostracism in Athens; but olive leaves were used instead of shells for ballots. [ 1913 Webster ] |