Filiform
- Pronunciation
- /FIL-uh-form/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Filiform
- Plural
- Filiforms
Definition
Thin and thread-like in shape, often used to describe antennae or other body parts of insects and arachnids.
Etymology
From Latin 'filum', meaning 'thread', and 'forma', meaning 'shape' or 'form'.
Example
Many beetles have filiform antennae that help them sense their environment.
Synonyms
- Threadlike
- Wire-like
Related Terms
- Antennae
- Setaceous
- Moniliform
Usage Notes
Filiform is typically used in descriptive anatomy to characterize the slender, elongated structure of various insect appendages.