TOMENTOSE Meaning and
Definition
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Tomentose is an adjective that describes something covered with a dense layer of fine, matted, and woolly hairs or fuzz. The term derives from the Latin word "tomentum," which means "stuffing." When an object or plant is referred to as tomentose, it means it is densely coated with a soft, felt-like covering of short and downy hairs. These hairs typically create a grayish or silvery appearance, giving the surface a velvety texture.
In botany, tomentose is commonly used to describe the hairy leaves, stems, or fruits of certain plants. This feature assists in reducing water loss through transpiration, protecting plant tissues from harmful environmental factors, and sometimes aiding in seed dispersal. Additionally, the hairs may act as insulation against extreme temperatures, preventing excessive evaporation in hot climates or providing warmth in cold environments.
Outside of botany, tomentose can also describe animal or insect body parts, such as the bodies of certain caterpillars or the thorax of certain beetles that possess a dense covering of fine hairs.
Overall, tomentose is a term used to depict an object or organism that is abundantly clothed in a thick, woolly, or velvety layer of fine hairs or fuzz, which serves various functions depending on the context in which it is used.
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In bot., covered with hairs so close as scarcely to be discernible; having a whitish down-like wool; nappy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TOMENTOSE
- romentose
- fomentose
- gomentose
- yomentose
- 6omentose
- 5omentose
- timentose
- tkmentose
- tlmentose
- tpmentose
- t0mentose
- t9mentose
- tonentose
- tokentose
- tojentose
- tomwntose
- tomsntose
- tomdntose
- tomrntose
Etymology of TOMENTOSE
The word "tomentose" is derived from the Latin term "tomentosus", which means "covered in fine hairs or down". It comes from the Latin word "tomentum", which translates to "stuffing" or "padding". The term ultimately traces back to the Latin verb "tomere", meaning "to stuff" or "to pad". In the botanical context, "tomentose" typically refers to a plant or leaf surface covered with short, soft, and matted hairs, creating a velvety or woolly appearance.
Similar spelling words for TOMENTOSE
