Multidigitate is a term used to describe organisms or structures that have multiple fingers or digit-like protrusions extending from a central point. The word is spelled as "muhl-tee-di-juh-teyt" in IPA phonetic transcription, which breaks down the pronunciation into individual sounds: /ˌmʌltiˈdɪdʒɪteɪt/. The prefix "multi-" indicates multiple or many, while "digitate" comes from the Latin word "digitus," meaning finger or toe. Together, the word describes the unique characteristics of certain biological structures, such as certain species of ferns and corals.
Multidigitate is an adjective that describes something which has many fingers or finger-like projections. The word is derived from the Latin words "multi" (meaning many) and "digitus" (meaning finger).
In a literal sense, the term is used to describe objects or organisms that possess numerous finger-shaped appendages or branches. For example, a plant with multidigitate leaves would have several finger-like lobes extending from the central vein. This term can also be used to describe the shape of certain animal structures, such as the feathers of a bird with multiple finger-like projections.
On a figurative level, multidigitate can be used in a broader sense to describe anything that resembles or is associated with multiple fingers, even if they are not physically present. For instance, a multidigitate pattern or texture may refer to a design with many finger-like shapes or a surface that is characterized by numerous finger-like ridges or impressions.
Overall, multidigitate refers to the quality or characteristic of having many fingers or finger-like projections. It is a versatile term that can be applied to various objects, organisms, patterns, or textures that possess multiple finger-shaped components or exhibit a resemblance to fingers.
Many-fingered; having many fingers, or finger-like processes.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word multidigitate is derived from two Latin roots: multi- meaning many or multiple, and digitus meaning finger or toe. The suffix -ate is often used in English to form adjectives, meaning having the quality of or characterized by. Thus, multidigitate literally means having many fingers or having multiple finger-like projections.