Pronunciation: [ʌmbˈɪlɪkˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "umbilicate" can be a bit challenging. It is spelled with a "c" in the middle, but pronounced with a "k" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ʌmˈbɪlɪkət/. The "k" sound is a result of the "c" being followed by the "a" and "t" in the middle of the word. So, even though it may not seem intuitive, "umbilicate" is spelled with a "c" but pronounced with a "k".
The word "umbilicate" is an adjective derived from the Latin word "umbilīcātus," which literally means "having an umbilicus." When used in a literal sense, "umbilicate" refers to any object or structure that possesses an umbilicus or navel-like depression. In biological terms, the umbilicus is the remnant of the umbilical cord, which connects a fetus to its mother during pregnancy. Therefore, an umbilicate structure can typically be recognized by a centrally located concavity or an indentation resembling a belly button.
In a more general sense, "umbilicate" can also be employed to describe any surface, such as a fruit or fungal cap, that displays a depression or concave shape at its center. This adjective often applies to certain plant and fungal species, where it characterizes the shape, form, or arrangement of specific features. For instance, certain plant leaves may present with an umbilicate base, exhibiting a sunken area where they connect to the stem.
Furthermore, "umbilicate" can also be metaphorically used to depict a person or thing that possesses a central focal point or holds a significant position of importance within a given context. In this context, the term is typically figurative and implies that the individual or object is considered pivotal, essential, or indispensable.
Having a navel, or resembling one; in bot., fixed to a stalk by a point in the centre; depressed in the middle like a navel.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word umbilicate has its etymology rooted in the Latin word umbilicatus, which is the past participle of umbilicare. Umbilicare comes from umbilicus, the Latin term for navel or belly button. The suffix -ate in umbilicate is added to many words in Latin to form adjectives, indicating the state or characteristic of the root word. Hence, umbilicate literally means having the characteristics of an umbilicus or resembling a belly button.
