Pronunciation: [kɐpˈɪtjʊləm] (IPA) 
Capitulum is a Latin noun that refers to a small chapter or section. The word is pronounced /kəˈpɪtjʊləm/ and is spelled with a "c" at the beginning to represent the "k" sound. The second letter "a" is pronounced as "uh" because of the consonant sound that follows it, in this case, the "p". The "i" in the middle is pronounced as "ee", and the final "u" is pronounced as "yoo". The last syllable "lum" is pronounced as "luhm".
Capitulum refers to a term with multiple uses and meanings in different fields, such as anatomy, botany, and zoology. In anatomy, capitulum is a term used to describe a specific part of a bone, usually a rounded knob-like structure that forms an articulation or connection with another bone. This term is often used in relation to the bones of the human body, particularly those in the skeletal system, such as the humerus bone in the arm and the radius bone in the forearm.
In botany, capitulum is used to describe a dense, compact, and rounded arrangement of flowers on a plant, resembling a head or cluster. This floral structure is often observed in certain plant families, including the daisy family (Asteraceae), where multiple tiny flowers are closely packed together to form a single flower-like unit.
In zoology, capitulum is used to refer to a particular anatomical feature found in arthropods, specifically insects and arachnids. A capitulum is a specialized mouthpart that includes structures like mouthparts, palps, and sensory organs. It is usually positioned at the front, ventral side of the head and is essential for feeding and sensory perception in these organisms.
Overall, capitulum is a versatile term used in various scientific fields, encompassing meanings related to bone structure, floral arrangements, and arthropod anatomy.
1. A small head or rounded articular extremity of a bone. 2. In botany, an inflorescence of sessile flowers crowded together into a common head.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In bot., a flower-head composed of a number of florets arranged without stems on the summit of a single peduncle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "capitulum" comes from the Latin term "caput", which means "head" or "top". In Latin, "caput" is combined with the suffix "-ulum", indicating a diminutive form, to give rise to "capitulum". The diminutive form suggests a small head or a little capital. This Latin term eventually entered various Romance languages, including Old French and Middle English, before finding its way into modern English in the 18th century.
