Pronunciation: [tˈɛntəkə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "tentacle" is spelled with the letter "c" instead of "k" due to its origin from Latin "tentaculum". In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈtɛntəkəl/. The initial sound "t" is followed by the stressed syllable "ten" which rhymes with "men". The second syllable "ta" is pronounced like "tuh" with a weak vowel schwa in the middle. The final syllable "cle" is pronounced as "kul" with a silent "e".
A tentacle is a specialized flexible appendage that extends from the body of certain organisms, particularly invertebrates, to perform a variety of functions. These slender structures are characterized by their elongated and often segmented appearance, as well as their sensitivity and mobility. Tentacles are primarily found in aquatic or marine organisms, though some land-dwelling organisms possess modified structures that function similarly.
The main purpose of tentacles is to aid in feeding, locomotion, and sensory perception. In many species, tentacles are equipped with sensory receptors that can detect changes in the surrounding environment, such as chemical cues or movement. This allows the organism to navigate its surroundings and respond to stimuli, assisting in locating prey, potential mates, or avoiding predators.
Furthermore, tentacles are integral to the feeding process for various organisms. They can capture and manipulate food, bringing it toward the mouth or digestive system. Tentacles may possess specialized structures like suction cups, hooks, or stingers for securing prey or defending against threats.
Some well-known examples of organisms possessing tentacles include squids, octopuses, jellyfish, sea anemones, and certain species of worms. Their variety of forms and functions make tentacles a fascinating adaptation that has evolved independently in multiple lineages throughout the animal kingdom.
A slender process for feeling, prehension, or locomotion in the lower vertebrates and the invertebrates.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Usually in the.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word tentacle has its origin in the Latin word tentaculum, which translates to feeler or pincer. This Latin term is derived from the verb tendere, meaning to stretch or to extend. Over time, this Latin word evolved into tentaculum—used to describe flexible, elongated organs present in animals such as cephalopods, such as octopuses or squids. Eventually, it entered the English language as tentacle.
