The spelling of the word "canalicular" is quite complex. It is pronounced as [kan-uh-lik-yuh-ler], where the first syllable is stressed. The word originates from the Latin word "canaliculus", which means "small canal". The suffix "ar" is added to the base word to create an adjective that describes something that is related to or resembles a canal. In medical terminology, canalicular refers to the tiny ducts or canals in tissues such as the liver or eye. Despite its difficult spelling, this word is commonly used in medical contexts.
Canalicular is an adjective that describes something as relating to or resembling a canal or a small channel. It can refer to anatomical structures or biological processes that involve the presence of canals or small channels.
In the field of anatomy, canalicular is often used to describe structures that have thin, tubular formations, similar to small canals. For example, in the context of the human body, canalicular can refer to the canalicular system of the liver, which consists of a network of thin tubes that conduct bile towards the common bile duct.
Additionally, canalicular can also describe certain biological processes, such as canalicular transport. This refers to the movement of substances through the small channels or canals within cells. For instance, in the liver, canalicular transport refers to the secretion of bile acids and other compounds into the bile canaliculi, which are small channels found between liver cells.
Overall, canalicular is a term that is closely related to the presence or formation of canals or small channels, whether they are anatomical structures or biological processes. It is commonly used in the medical and biological sciences to provide a specific description of structures or processes that involve the presence of these small passageways.
Relating to a canaliculus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "canalicular" is derived from the Latin word "canaliculus", which means "little channel" or "small tube". The Latin term "canalis" refers to a "groove" or "duct". The suffix "-cular" is used to form an adjective, indicating "pertaining to" or "resembling". Therefore, "canalicular" describes something that relates to or has characteristics of a small tube, groove, or duct.