peduncle

noun7

1. •
   The stalk supporting an inflorescence or a solitary flower/fruit.
2. •
   A short stalk at the base of a reproductive structure of a non-flowering plant.

   • On fertilization, the archegonia form obyriform calyptrae that are distinctly narrowed at base to form a stalk or peduncle; this does not occur in other Hepaticae. — 1992
3. •
   In arthropods, the base segments of an antenna or stalk-like structures such as the peduncles of some barnacles.
4. •
   In vertebrates, the base of any relatively massive anatomical member connected to the body by a narrower section. Cf. caudal peduncle of fishes.
5. •
   A stem attaching a mass of tissue (such as a polyp) to the body.
6. •
   A bundle of neurons connecting different parts of the brain.
7. •
   A collection of nerves in the appendage of an animal (such as the tip of a dolphin's tail).