Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Filamentous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงต
Add to dictionary

filamentous

[หŒfษชl.ษ™หˆmษ›n.tษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

structure appearance

Filamentous refers to something that is thread-like or resembling a filament. It often describes structures that are long, thin, and flexible, such as certain types of algae or fungi.

Synonyms

fibrous, stringy, thread-like.

Examples of usage

  • The filamentous structure of the fungus spread across the surface.
  • Some filamentous bacteria can be seen under a microscope.
  • The filamentous algae formed green strands in the water.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, filamentous structures can refer to certain types of algae that form long, stringy colonies.
  • Fungi like mold can also be filamentous, with hyphae that look like tiny threads spreading out in search of nutrients.
  • Filamentous bacterial colonies can create structures that look like fine strands under a microscope.

Art

  • Artists sometimes use filamentous materials in sculptures to create airy, light effects, allowing light to filter through.
  • Some abstract art uses thin, thread-like elements to convey motion or fluidity, reflecting the properties of filamentous materials.
  • In textiles, filamentous fibers are essential for creating fine, delicate fabrics like chiffon or organza.

Culture

  • In traditional crafts, filamentous fibers like silk or fine threads are often used in intricate embroidery or weaving.
  • Various cultural art forms utilize thin strands, such as the delicate patterns in Indian rangoli where colored powders or petals resemble filamentous designs.
  • In modern fashion, clothing made with filamentous materials can create a lightweight, flowing appearance.

Origin of 'filamentous'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'filamentum', meaning 'a thread'.
  • It combines 'filare', which means 'to spin', highlighting its thread-like nature.
  • The suffix '-ous' indicates a quality or condition, so 'filamentous' describes something having thread-like qualities.

The word 'filamentous' is derived from the Latin word 'filamentum', which means 'thread'. The Latin 'filamentum' is a diminutive form of 'filum', meaning 'thread' or 'string'. This etymological background highlights the word's association with thin and thread-like structures. The use of 'filamentous' in English has been prevalent since the early 19th century, primarily in biological contexts to describe structures such as fungi, bacteria, and algae that exhibit a thread-like appearance. As the field of microbiology grew, so did the usage of the term to categorize and describe various organisms based on their morphology. The term has since been adopted in various scientific disciplines, including botany and mycology, to describe the characteristic shapes of certain organisms.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,163, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.