Ciliary motion refers to the rhythmic beating movement of tiny hair-like structures called cilia, lining certain cells and tissues. In phonetic transcription, "ciliary" is written as /ˈsɪliəri/, with the stress on the second syllable. The initial "c" is pronounced as a voiceless (unvoiced) "s" sound, and the "i" is pronounced with a short "ih" sound. The following "l" sound is pronounced with the tip of the tongue touching the ridge behind the upper teeth. "Motion" is written as /ˈmoʊʃən/ with the stress on the first syllable.
Ciliary motion refers to the coordinated movement or vibration of cilia, which are small, hair-like structures found on the surface of certain cells or organisms. Cilia are typically composed of microtubules and are capable of rhythmic, sweeping motions.
In biology, ciliary motion plays a crucial role in diverse organisms and biological processes. One common example is found in the respiratory system, where cilia lining the airways continuously beat in a coordinated fashion to move mucus and foreign particles out of the lungs, helping to clear the air passages. This mechanism ensures that the respiratory system remains unobstructed and functioning properly.
Ciliary motion is also found in other parts of the body, such as the female reproductive system, where cilia move the unfertilized egg through the fallopian tubes towards the uterus. Additionally, certain single-celled organisms, like Paramecium, employ cilia for locomotion, propelling themselves through water by beating their cilia in a coordinated manner.
Understanding ciliary motion is essential in various scientific fields, including biology, medicine, and bioengineering. Researchers and scientists study ciliary motion to gain insights into the underlying mechanisms and functions of cilia, as well as its potential physiological and pathological implications.
That rapid vibratile motion characteristic of cilia in a state of action.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "ciliary" derives from the Latin word "cilia", which means "eyelash". "Motion" comes from the Latin word "motio", meaning "movement". Therefore, the term "ciliary motion" refers to the movement or motion generated by the cilia, which are hair-like structures present in some cells.