The word "lentiginous" is pronounced /lenˈtɪdʒɪnəs/ and it refers to something that is covered in freckles or spots. The first syllable, "len," is pronounced like "ten" but with an "l" sound. The second syllable, "ti," is pronounced like "tee." The third syllable, "gin," is pronounced like "jin" but with a hard "g" like in "go." The final syllable, "ous," is pronounced like "us." Remembering the phonetic transcription can help ensure that this word is spelled correctly.
Lentiginous is an adjective that describes something characterized by the presence of lentigines, which are small, flat, and brown spots or patches that appear on the skin. These spots are usually more common in fair-skinned individuals and can vary in size and shape. Lentigines are commonly referred to as "liver spots" or "age spots," although they are not directly related to liver function or aging.
The term lentiginous is not solely associated with skin conditions; it can also be used in other contexts, such as in botany or pathology. In botany, it describes the appearance of small spots, freckles, or discolorations on the leaves, bark, or other plant parts. In pathology, it refers to the microscopic observation of cells or tissues that display a pattern suggestive of lentigines.
This word can also be used metaphorically to describe non-physical attributes or characteristics. For example, one could say that a person has a "lentiginous personality," implying that they have various distinct traits or characteristics that are scattered or dispersed, much like lentigines on the skin.
Overall, lentiginous pertains to the presence of lentigines, whether in reference to skin, plants, pathology, or metaphorical usage.
Freckly; scurfy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lentiginous" derives from the Latin term "lentīginōsus", which means "freckled" or "covered in freckles". It ultimately comes from the noun "lentīgo", which means "freckle" in Latin.