How Do You Spell MUCILAGE?

Pronunciation: [mjˈuːsɪlɪd͡ʒ] (IPA)

"Mucilage" is a tricky word to spell, but its pronunciation can be helped by the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): /ˈmjuːsɪlɪdʒ/. The "m" at the beginning and "age" at the end are straightforward. However, the "u" sounds like "yu," the "c" has a "s" sound, and the "i" is pronounced like "ee." The double "l" in the middle is pronounced with a slight pause, like "mu-si-lidge." Remembering these sounds can aid in spelling mucilage correctly.

MUCILAGE Meaning and Definition

1. Mucilage is a sticky substance that is composed of polysaccharides or glycoproteins. It is commonly found in various plants and is often responsible for the slimy or gelatinous texture observed in certain parts of plants, such as seeds, stems, leaves, and fruits. Mucilage serves multiple purposes for plants, including providing moisture retention and protection.

   In terms of its composition, mucilage is primarily made up of long chains of carbohydrates, mainly polysaccharides like arabinose, xylose, and galactose. Additionally, it may also contain proteins or lipids, depending on the specific plant species. The precise composition of mucilage can differ from plant to plant, resulting in variations in texture and appearance.

   One of the key functions of mucilage in plants is to retain moisture. It acts as a hydrogel, absorbing and holding water near the plant surface. This helps in preventing desiccation, especially in arid environments, as well as aiding in seed germination by maintaining a moist environment for seeds to develop. The sticky nature of mucilage also contributes to its role in protection by sticking to potential threats, such as insects or pathogens, thereby deterring them or impeding their movement.

   Beyond its significance in plants, mucilage has found various uses in different human activities, such as in the food industry as a thickening agent, a binder in pharmaceutical formulations, and even in cosmetics for its adhesive properties. Overall, mucilage serves as a fascinating natural substance with its capacity to retain moisture and provide protective features in plants, while also having practical applications in various human domains.

2. Mucilago.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. A solution in water of gummy matter; a slimy substance found in many vegetables.

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

Common Misspellings for MUCILAGE

• fusilage
• nucilage
• kucilage
• mucolage
• mucioage
• mucilafge
• muciage
• mucihage
• mucillago
• mucalago
• mucilagede
• musilaged
• Musafage
• mamilage
• munitage
• Pucilage
• muciligae
• muciledge
• muclagen

Etymology of MUCILAGE

The word "mucilage" comes from the Latin word "mucilago", which means "moistness" or "sliminess". The Latin term originated from the verb "mucidus", which means "moist" or "slimy", and the suffix "-age", which indicates a state or condition. "Mucilage" refers to a thick, gooey substance that is often produced by certain plants and has adhesive properties.

Similar spelling words for MUCILAGE

• musculus,
• muscle cell.

Plural form of MUCILAGE is MUCILAGES