The word "filiform" is spelled as /fɪlɪfɔːm/. The first syllable "fil" is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "hill", followed by the "l" sound. The second syllable "i" is pronounced with a short "i" sound again, followed by the "f" sound, and then the "ɔː" sound as in "law". The final syllable "m" is pronounced with a clear "m" sound. The word refers to something that is thread-like in shape or texture, such as a hair or a slender part of an object.
Filiform is an adjective that is used to describe something resembling a thread or filament in its appearance or shape. It is derived from the Latin word "filum," meaning "thread." Filiform refers to objects that are slender, elongated, or needle-like, similar in form to a very thin, flexible strand.
This term is commonly used in biology to describe specific structures or appendages found in various organisms. For instance, in botany, filiform can describe certain plant parts like leaves or floral organs that are long and thread-like in shape. In zoology, it may refer to thin, elongated structures such as the body or antennae of certain insects.
Filiform can also have relevance in medical contexts, particularly in describing certain types of growth or lesions. In dermatology, filiform is often used to characterize certain types of skin tags or warts that appear as elongated, slender projections.
Moreover, filiform can be used to describe certain non-biological objects, such as filiform electrodes used in medical procedures or filiform brushes used for fine artistic work.
In summary, filiform is an adjective denoting objects or structures that are thin, elongated, and thread-like. This term finds usage across various fields, including biology, medicine, and art, to describe slender and needle-like characteristics of different objects.
Filamentous, hair-like, thread-like; in bacteriology, noting an even growth along the line of inoculation, either stroke or stab; see cut under culture, B, 1.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• Slender like a thread.
• See filament.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "filiform" is derived from Latin. It comes from the combination of two Latin words: "filum", meaning "thread" or "string", and "forma", meaning "shape" or "form". When combined, "filum" and "forma" create "filiform", which refers to something that resembles or is shaped like a thread or filament.