How Do You Spell LANUGINOUS?

Pronunciation: [lanjˈuːd͡ʒɪnəs] (IPA)

Lanuginous is a word that describes something covered in soft, fine hairs or wool that feel like a down or fluff. The spelling of lanuginous can be quite tricky to remember because it is not straightforward. The IPA transcription for lanuginous is /lænjuːdʒənəs/, which breaks down as "LAN-yoo-jə-nuhs." To help remember the spelling, think of Lan, as in the first four letters, and the word Uggs, as in the popular shoe brand, sandwiched in between.

LANUGINOUS Meaning and Definition

1. Lanuginous is an adjective that describes something covered or characterized by a downy or woolly texture, like the soft, fine hair found on newborn babies or certain types of plant leaves. The term is derived from the Latin word "lanugo," which means "down" or "wool."

   When used to describe animals, lanuginous refers to a dense layer of fine hair that provides insulation or protection. This can be observed in certain mammals, such as baby animals, where lanuginous hair is often present shortly after birth. This delicate covering helps to regulate their body temperature and keep them warm.

   In botany, lanuginous describes the fuzzy or hairy appearance of plant parts, such as leaves, stems, or fruits. These appendages serve various functions, including reducing water loss, providing protection against pests, or aiding in seed dispersal.

   Beyond its biological applications, lanuginous can also describe the texture of fabrics or materials that are soft, fuzzy, or covered in a downy layer. It is often associated with comfort and warmth, making it desirable for items like blankets or winter clothing.

   Overall, lanuginous is a term used to depict the presence of fine, soft, and woolly hair or texture on animals, plants, or materials.

2. Downy or woolly; covered with down, or fine, soft, interlaced hairs.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for LANUGINOUS

• kanuginous
• panuginous
• oanuginous
• lznuginous
• lsnuginous
• lwnuginous
• lqnuginous
• labuginous
• lamuginous
• lajuginous
• lahuginous
• lanyginous
• lanhginous
• lanjginous
• laniginous
• lan8ginous
• lan7ginous
• lanufinous
• lanuvinous
• lanuuginous

Etymology of LANUGINOUS

The word "lanuginous" derives from the Latin term "lanūginōsus", which is derived from "lanūgō" meaning "down" or "fine hair". "Lanūgō" refers to the fine, soft hair or fur that covers the bodies of newborn animals, especially mammals. Over time, the Latin term "lanūginōsus" evolved into the English word "lanuginous", which is used to describe something that is covered with or consists of fine, downy hair.