ciliate

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Definition of "Ciliate"

Ciliate is an adjective that describes something that has tiny, hair-like projections called cilia. These projections can be found on some cells, including certain types of protozoa (which are tiny, single-celled organisms) and even on human eyelashes.

Usage Instructions

• As an Adjective: You can use "ciliate" to describe cells or organisms that feature these tiny hair-like structures.
• As a Noun: "Ciliate" can also refer to a type of protozoan that has cilia.

Examples

1. Adjective Usage:

   • "The ciliate cells in the human respiratory system help move mucus out of the lungs."

2. Noun Usage:

   • "The scientist studied a ciliate under a microscope to understand its behavior."

Advanced Usage

In scientific contexts, "ciliate" often refers to specific types of organisms within the kingdom Protista. These organisms are known for their movement and feeding mechanisms that use cilia. In biology, understanding ciliates can be important for studying ecosystems or human health.

Word Variants

• Cilia (noun): The plural form referring to the hair-like structures themselves.
• Ciliation (noun): The process or condition of having cilia.

Different Meanings

• Ciliate primarily has biological meanings, but in a more general sense, it can describe anything that resembles or has tiny hair-like projections.

Synonyms

• Hairy
• Fringed (in the context of having fringes like projections)
• Ciliated (another form of the word, often used interchangeably)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "ciliate," as it is a more technical term. However, you might encounter phrases related to its scientific context, such as "ciliated epithelium," which refers to a layer of cells with cilia.

Summary

In summary, "ciliate" is a descriptive term that refers to tiny hair-like structures. It can describe both certain cells in living organisms and specific types of protozoans.

Academic

Adjective

1. having a margin or fringe of hairlike projections
2. of or relating to the human eyelash
3. of or relating to cilia projecting from the surface of a cell

Noun

1. a protozoan with a microscopic appendage extending from the surface of the cell

Synonyms

• ciliated
• ciliary
• cilial
• ciliated protozoan
• ciliophoran