How Do You Spell OPERCULAR?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒpəkjˌʊlə] (IPA)

Opercular is spelled with six letters that follow the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈɒpəkjʊlə(r)/. The initial "o" pronounced as /ɒ/ represents the short sound of "o" as in "hot" or "not." The next letter, "p," is pronounced as /p/, just like in "pen" or "paper" and is then followed by the letter "e" that has an unclear sound, as in "happen." Then, the "r" pronounced as /r/, is linear and requires rolling the tongue. The ending letters "c," "u," "l," and "a" together are pronounced /kjʊlə(r)/, with an almost silent "u." Therefore, Opercular is a six-letter word with four syllables, and the stress is on the second syllable.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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OPERCULAR Meaning and Definition

  1. Opercular is an adjective that describes something related to the operculum. The operculum refers to a protective covering, lid, or flap that functions as a closure or door in various organisms. The term "opercular" is employed to characterize anatomical structures, behaviors, or processes that are associated with or influenced by the operculum.

    In the context of fish and some amphibians, "opercular" refers to the bony covering that protects the gills. This structure is usually located on either side of the head and consists of a hard, movable flap that opens and closes to regulate the flow of water and oxygen into the gill chambers. Additionally, the term can be used to describe any other anatomical feature related to or resembling this particular covering.

    In the field of biology, "opercular" may also describe other protective structures such as the lid or covering of certain shells or eggs. These structures are designed to shield the delicate internal contents, providing insulation, support, and safeguard against predation or environmental factors.

    Moreover, "opercular" can be used metaphorically to define something that serves as a form of closure or cover for a concept, a mechanism, or a process. For example, it can refer to a mental barrier or closure in psychology or a protective covering in chemistry that prevents contamination or leakage. In general, this term alludes to objects or features that possess a functional or symbolic closing or protective component.

  2. Relating to an operculum.

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

  3. Having a lid or cover; of the nature of a lid or cover.

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

Common Misspellings for OPERCULAR

  • orcular
  • opacular
  • Opircular
  • Opargular
  • ipercular
  • kpercular
  • lpercular
  • ppercular
  • 0percular
  • 9percular
  • ooercular
  • olercular
  • o-ercular
  • o0ercular
  • opdrcular
  • oprrcular
  • op4rcular
  • op3rcular
  • opeecular
  • opedcular

Etymology of OPERCULAR

The word "opercular" has its origin from the Latin word "operculum", which means "a lid" or "a cover". The term is derived from the Latin verb "operire", which signifies "to cover" or "to close". In biology, particularly in zoology, "opercular" refers to the structures or covers found on certain organisms, such as shells or lids on the gills of fish.