Pronunciation: [lˈɪŋɡwɪfˌɔːm] (IPA) 
The word "linguiform" is spelled with two distinct syllables, beginning with the "ling-" sound, which is pronounced as /lɪŋ/. The second syllable begins with "gui-" and is pronounced as /ɡwi/ with a soft "g" sound. The word then ends with the "-form" suffix, pronounced as /fɔrm/. In terms of meaning, "linguiform" refers to something that is shaped like a tongue. For example, a linguiform leaf would be shaped like a tongue.
Linguiform is an adjective used to describe something that takes the shape or resembles that of a tongue. The term combines the Latin word "lingua," which means "tongue," and the English suffix "-form," which indicates the shape or form of something.
When applied to objects or organisms, linguiform highlights their physical resemblance to the human tongue. It suggests that the item in question possesses a similar shape, structure, or characteristic curling nature found in a tongue. Linguiform can be used to describe various items and phenomena, including geographic features, plants, animals, or even man-made objects.
In the context of geography, linguiform refers to landforms or bodies of water that closely resemble the shape of a tongue. This could include elongated, narrow protrusions, peninsulas, or islands that exhibit a similar shape and appearance to the human tongue.
Linguiform can also describe botanical features such as leaves, petals, or structures of plants that resemble the shape of a tongue. Similarly, it may be used to describe certain animals or parts of their anatomy, like the shape of a snake's tongue or certain worms.
Additionally, linguiform can extend beyond the natural world and be applied to man-made objects. It might be used to describe architectural elements, sculptures, or design patterns that imitate the shape of a tongue.
Overall, the term linguiform encompasses a wide range of contexts and applications, all relating to something that is reminiscent of or shaped like a tongue.
Tongue-shaped.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word linguiform combines two roots: lingui- and -form.
lingui- is derived from the Latin word lingua which means tongue. It refers to anything relating to or resembling a tongue or its characteristics.
-form is a combining form from Latin that denotes shape or form.
Therefore, linguiform can be understood as meaning having the shape or form of a tongue or resembling a tongue in shape or form.
