The word "lamellate" is spelled with two "l's," two "e's," two "m's," and one "a" and one "t." It is pronounced /ləˈmɛlɪt/. In this word, the "e" in the first syllable is silent, while the "e" in the second syllable is pronounced as a schwa between the "l" and the "m." The stress is on the third syllable "late." "Lamellate" is often used to describe an object or organism that has thin, overlapping plates or layers, such as certain types of mushrooms or certain types of rocks.
Lamellate is an adjective that refers to the presence or characteristic of having or consisting of lamellae. Lamellae are thin, flat, and plate-like structures that are arranged in an ordered manner. They can be found in various natural materials and organisms.
In the field of biology, the term lamellate commonly describes certain structures or organisms that possess thin, parallel plates or sheets. For example, lamellate gills are found in certain species of mushrooms or fungi, where they are arranged in concentric circles or tiers, aiding in the absorption of nutrients and gases. Similarly, lamellate antennae are present in insects like beetles and butterflies, consisting of segmented plates that help in sensory perception.
In the context of geology and mineralogy, the term lamellate refers to rock formations or mineral structures that exhibit thin, flat layers or lamellae. These lamellae can be seen in various rocks like slate or shale, where they form due to the compression and layering of sediment over time.
Overall, lamellate is a versatile term used to describe structures, organisms, rocks, or minerals that possess thin, flat plates or layers arranged in an organized or regular pattern.
Composed of very thin plates or scales; foliated.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lamellate" has its etymology rooted in the Latin word "lamella", meaning "a small plate or thin layer". "Lamella" is the diminutive form of "lamina", which means "thin plate" or "leaf". The suffix "-ate" in "lamellate" denotes the quality or condition of having or being characterized by lamellae. Overall, "lamellate" refers to something that has or is composed of thin plates, layers, or leaf-like structures.