CIRRIGRADE Meaning and
Definition
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Cirrigrade is an adjective derived from the Latin words "cirrus," meaning hair, and "gradus," meaning step or movement. The term is primarily used in the field of zoology to describe certain organisms or movements associated with hair-like structures. Cirrigrade refers to the capacity of an organism or its appendages to move by means of or in a manner similar to hair-like projections.
In general, cirrigrade describes the locomotion or propulsion achieved through the use of slender, thread-like, or fibrillous appendages that resemble hairs. These appendages may be present on the organisms themselves or on specialized organs, such as legs or wings. This movement occurs by creating undulating or oscillatory motions with the hair-like projections, allowing the organism to move across surfaces or through fluids.
Cirrigrade locomotion is found in various organisms, including certain groups of microorganisms, such as some bacteria and protists. Additionally, some invertebrates, such as certain worms and larvae, exhibit cirrigrade movement. In the realm of botany, certain plants utilize cirrigrade structures, such as tendrils, to support climbing or attachment to other surfaces.
Overall, the term cirrigrade encompasses a wide range of movements or structures associated with hair-like appendages, aiding in the locomotion or attachment of various organisms.
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Moving by means of cirri.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CIRRIGRADE
- xirrigrade
- virrigrade
- firrigrade
- dirrigrade
- currigrade
- cjrrigrade
- ckrrigrade
- corrigrade
- c9rrigrade
- c8rrigrade
- cierigrade
- cidrigrade
- cifrigrade
- citrigrade
- ci5rigrade
- ci4rigrade
- cireigrade
- cirdigrade
- cirfigrade
Etymology of CIRRIGRADE
The word "Cirrigrade" is not commonly found in dictionaries or recognized in English vocabulary. Therefore, it does not have a well-established etymology. However, if we break down the word into its components, "cirri-" and "-grade", we can make some assumptions.
The prefix "cirri-" typically refers to hair-like appendages or tendrils found on an organism. It derives from the Latin word "cirrus", meaning "curl" or "tendril". For example, "cirrus clouds" have a feathery, hair-like appearance.
The suffix "-grade" signifies movement or progression. It comes from the Latin word "gradus", meaning "step" or "a going". It is commonly used in words related to motion or advancement, such as "upgrade", "retrograde", or "progress".
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