receptáculo

A receptáculo is a general term used in various scientific and technical fields to describe a container or a hollow structure designed to hold, store, or support other objects or substances. The term originates from the Latin word *receptaculum*, meaning "a place for receiving or holding."

In botany, a receptáculo refers to the part of a flower's base where the floral organs—such as petals, stamens, and carpels—are attached. It serves as the structural foundation for the flower, often forming the swollen or flattened surface from which these parts emerge. In some flowers, the receptáculo may be modified into specialized structures, such as the fleshy disc in sunflowers or the inflorescence base in apples.

In engineering and architecture, a receptáculo can refer to a housing unit or enclosure that protects or organizes components, such as electrical receptacles (outlets) in wiring systems or mechanical housings for machinery. These structures ensure proper functionality while safeguarding internal elements from external damage or interference.

The term is also used in geology to describe cavities or hollow spaces within rock formations, such as those formed by erosion, dissolution, or biological activity. These receptáculos can influence water flow, mineral deposition, and habitat formation in subterranean environments.

In everyday language, "receptáculo" may colloquially refer to any container, such as a box, tray, or compartment, though this usage is less precise than its specialized scientific applications. The term emphasizes its role as a passive holder rather than an active component.