RUNCINATED Meaning and
Definition
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Runcinated is an adjective derived from the Latin word "runcinatus," which means notched or jagged. It refers to a particular shape or pattern characterized by deep, tooth-like indentations or cusps along the edges or margins of an object. This term is commonly used in various fields, including botany, geometry, and heraldry.
In botany, runcinated describes a particular type of leaf shape where the margin is deeply divided or incised, resulting in tooth-like lobes that point backwards towards the base. This can be observed in plants like dandelions, where the edges of the leaves are deeply serrated, forming inward-pointing triangular teeth.
In geometry, runcinated refers to a polygon with edges that are partially removed by creating notches or pronounced cusps along its sides. This modifies the original polygon in such a way that it no longer retains a continuous perimeter, as portions of the sides have been replaced by inwardly pointing concave cut-outs.
In heraldry, runcinated is used to describe a specific divided shape found in certain coats of arms. This shape consists of a series of distinctive arrowhead-shaped indents along the outer edges of a shield or emblem.
Overall, runcinated signifies a distinctive notched or jagged pattern, whether it pertains to leaves, polygons, or heraldic designs, adding uniqueness and character to the respective objects or symbols.
Etymology of RUNCINATED
The word "runcinated" is derived from the Latin word "runcinatus", which is the past participle of "runcinare". In Latin, "runcinare" means "to prune", specifically referring to trimming or cutting back in a notched or jagged manner. The term "runcinated" has been adopted into English to describe a serrated or toothed edge, often seen in horticulture to describe leaves or margins that have deep, irregular indentations or lobes.
