Pinnate: meaning, definitions and examples

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pinnate

 

[ ˈpɪn.eɪt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

botanical structure

Pinnate refers to a specific type of leaf arrangement in plants, where leaflets are arranged along both sides of a common axis, resembling a feather. This structure allows for an efficient surface area to capture sunlight for photosynthesis. Pinnate leaves can be varying in complexity, from simple to compound forms, and serve various functions in plant physiology. This arrangement is seen in many plant species, enhancing their ability to thrive in diverse environments.

Synonyms

compound, feather-like, leafy.

Examples of usage

  • The oak tree has pinnate leaves that serve as a crucial part of its photosynthesis.
  • Pinnate leaf structures are often found in ferns and certain types of flowering plants.
  • The fern exhibited a beautifully pinnate pattern, showcasing its unique adaptations to its environment.

Translations

Translations of the word "pinnate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pinnado

🇮🇳 पिनेट

🇩🇪 fiederblättrig

🇮🇩 pinnat

🇺🇦 перистий

🇵🇱 pierzasty

🇯🇵 羽状の

🇫🇷 pinné

🇪🇸 pinnado

🇹🇷 pinnat

🇰🇷 깃털 모양의

🇸🇦 مركب

🇨🇿 peřenosečný

🇸🇰 pernatý

🇨🇳 羽状的

🇸🇮 pernat

🇮🇸 fjaðraskipt

🇰🇿 пиннат

🇬🇪 ფრინველის მსგავსი

🇦🇿 quş tükümsü

🇲🇽 pinnado

Etymology

The word 'pinnate' originates from the Latin word 'pinnatus', which means 'feathered'. This root is derived from 'pinna', meaning 'feather' or 'wing'. The use of the term in botanical contexts began to appear in the 17th century as botanists and scientists sought to categorize the diverse forms of leaves observed in various plant species. The concept of pinnate leaves aligns with the natural world’s designs, reflecting evolutionary adaptations that enhance survival and reproduction. Over time, 'pinnate' has been extensively adopted in biological nomenclature, allowing for precise descriptions of plant morphology. Its application has expanded beyond botany into other fields such as zoology, where it may describe similar structures in animal anatomy.