Capillaceous is a rarely used adjective that describes something that is hair-like or consisting of fine, thread-like structures. Its spelling is based on the Latin word "capillus," meaning hair, and the suffix "-aceous," which indicates quality or nature. In International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription, capillaceous can be written as /kəpɪˈleɪʃəs/. The pronunciation guide indicates that the first syllable is pronounced as "kuh-puh," followed by a stressed "lee," and ending with "shus."
Capillaceous is a term that is generally used in botanical and scientific contexts to describe something that is hair-like, filamentous, or resembling a fine, thread-like structure. The term is derived from the Latin word "capilla" meaning hair. Capillaceous commonly refers to the thin, long, and delicate structures that are similar to hair, such as certain plant appendages or fine filaments found in organisms.
In botany, capillaceous typically refers to the leaf structures or plant parts that are slender and hair-like. These structures can be observed in various plants, notably in mosses, ferns, and certain flowering plants. Capillaceous leaf segments or structures may exhibit a fine, thread-like form, often with a small size or slender shape. They are often recognized for their delicate appearance, which may serve specific functions like absorption, protection, or reproductive purposes.
Outside of botany, capillaceous can also refer to tiny hair-like particles or substances in scientific contexts. For instance, scientists might use the term to describe thin, thread-like fibers found in chemical or biochemical processes. Moreover, capillaceous might be employed to characterize fine filaments or hair-like structures found in certain organisms, such as the microscopic tentacles of some aquatic animals or the delicate sensory appendages of certain insects.
Overall, capillaceous primarily denotes something that is slender, hair-like, fine, and possesses a thread-like appearance.
Very slender, like hair.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "capillaceous" is derived from the Latin word "capillāris", which means "of or pertaining to hair". It is formed by adding the Latin suffix "-aceous", which is used to create adjectives denoting a resemblance to or being characterized by the root word. In this case, "capillāris" refers to hair, and "capillaceous" describes something that resembles or is characterized by hair-like structures.