pinnule

(pinyo̵̅o̅l′)

noun

  1. any of the smallest divisions of a leaf which is doubly compound, esp. in ferns
  2. any of the lateral branches of the arm of a crinoid

Origin: ModL pinnula < L, dim. of pinna, wing, feather: see pen

Related Forms:

See pinnule in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. pin·nules also pin·nu·lae (pĭnˈyə-lēˌ)
  1. Botany Any of the ultimate leaflets of a bipinnately compound leaf.
  2. Zoology A featherlike or plumelike organ or part, such as a small fin, or one of the appendages of a crinoid.

Origin:

Origin: Latin pinnula

Origin: , diminutive of pinna, feather; see pet- in Indo-European roots

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Related Forms:

  • pinˈnu·lar adjective

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