{ } a. [ L. operculatus, p. p. of operculare to furnish with a lid, fr. operculum lid. ] 1. (Bot.) Closed by a lid or cover, as the capsules of the mosses. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Zool.) Having an operculum, or an apparatus for protecting the gills; -- said of shells and of fishes. [ 1913 Webster ]