MONILIFORM HAIR Meaning and
Definition
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Moniliform hair refers to a strand or filament of hair that displays a beaded or necklace-like appearance due to the presence of small, distinct, and regularly spaced swellings along its length. The term "moniliform" derives from the Latin word "monile," which means necklace or chain.
This type of hair morphology is commonly observed in certain animal species, often serving as an adaptation to specific environmental conditions or functions. For instance, in plants, moniliform hairs can be found on the leaves, stems, or flowers and are thought to aid in reducing water loss by creating a layer of air that acts as insulation against dehydration. In some cases, these hairs may also serve a defensive purpose by deterring herbivores or trapping insects.
In animals, moniliform hairs are typically found in specialized regions, such as the antennae or mouthparts of arthropods. These hairs can play a crucial role in sensory perception, enabling these organisms to detect chemical cues or changes in their surroundings. The structure of moniliform hairs enhances their ability to capture and transmit signals, with each bead or swelling potentially corresponding to a sensory cell or pore.
Overall, the unique structure of moniliform hair reflects its specific function in various organisms, be it protective, sensory, or adaptive. Understanding the morphology and purpose of these hairs contributes to our knowledge of the diverse strategies employed by living organisms to survive and interact with their environment.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MONILIFORM HAIR
- noniliform hair
- koniliform hair
- joniliform hair
- miniliform hair
- mkniliform hair
- mlniliform hair
- mpniliform hair
- m0niliform hair
- m9niliform hair
- mobiliform hair
- momiliform hair
- mojiliform hair
- mohiliform hair
- monuliform hair
- monjliform hair
- monkliform hair
- monoliform hair
- mon9liform hair
- mon8liform hair
- monikiform hair
Etymology of MONILIFORM HAIR
The etymology of the term "moniliform hair" can be broken down as follows:
1. Moniliform: The term "moniliform" comes from the Latin word "monile", meaning necklace or collar, and the suffix "-form", meaning "in the form of". It is a scientific term used to describe objects that resemble a string of beads or pearls due to their repetitive, rounded, and elongated shape.
2. Hair: The term "hair" comes from the Old English word "hǣr", which has Germanic roots. It refers to the filamentous outgrowths of the epidermis found in mammals and other animals.
Therefore, "moniliform hair" is a term used in biology and describes hair-like structures that resemble a string of beads or pearls.
