Lamellae Meaning: Definition and Examples
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lamellae
[lΙΛmΙleΙͺ ]
Definition
biological structure
Lamellae are thin layers or plates, often found in biological tissues or structures. They play a crucial role in processes such as gas exchange in gills or chlorophyll distribution in leaves.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The lamellae in the gills allow fish to extract oxygen from water.
- In the leaf structure, lamellae help in maximizing light absorption.
- The lamellae in the bone contribute to its strength and structure.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- In the study of fungi, lamellae refer to the gills or thin plates under mushroom caps that produce spores.
- In fish, lamellae are found in gills, aiding in the exchange of gases and filtration of water.
- In human anatomy, lamellae describe the thin layers of bone tissue, crucial for bone structure and strength.
Material Science
- Lamellae structures can be seen in polymers, contributing to their strength and flexibility.
- Certain crystalline substances exhibit lamellae, which can affect their optical properties.
- Engineers study lamellar patterns in composite materials to enhance strength without adding weight.
Art and Design
- In sculpture, lamellae can refer to layered techniques used to create texture in artworks.
- Some modern architectural designs incorporate lamellae for aesthetic effects and to manage light.
- Fashion designers sometimes use lamellae in fabric design, creating layers that provide depth and visual interest.
Psychology
- The term lamellae has been used metaphorically in psychology to describe layers of experience or understanding.
- Some therapies explore the 'lamellar' aspects of human emotions, viewing them as layered and nuanced rather than flat.
- In cognitive science, concepts can be represented in 'lamellae' to illustrate the complexity of thought processes.
Origin of 'lamellae'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'lamella', meaning 'thin plate' or 'layer'.
- It was first used in the scientific context in the 19th century to describe microscopic structures.
- In biological contexts, the word has been used to describe layers in tissues or cell structures.
The word 'lamella' originates from the Latin term 'lamella', which is a diminutive form of 'lamina', meaning 'thin layer' or 'plate'. The use of the term in biological contexts has been prevalent since the 19th century, particularly in the study of anatomy and morphology. Lamellae describe various structures in plants, animals, and fungi, highlighting their importance in various biological functions. The term has been adopted in multiple scientific disciplines, indicating the universal application of the concept of layered structures in nature.