How Do You Spell FLAGELLUM?

Pronunciation: [flɐd͡ʒˈɛləm] (IPA)

The word "flagellum" is pronounced /fleɪˈdʒɛləm/ and refers to a whip-like structure found in some cells, such as in bacteria or sperm cells. Its spelling can be tricky due to the presence of the two consecutive "l" letters in the middle of the word, which can cause confusion for non-native speakers. However, the correct way to spell it is with double "l" and no "e" at the end, as the word derives from the Latin term "flagellum", meaning whip.

Meaning and Definition
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Etymology
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FLAGELLUM Meaning and Definition

  1. A "flagellum" is a microscopic whip-like appendage that extends from the surface of certain cells, particularly bacteria, protozoa, and sperm cells. This long, slender structure is composed of a specialized protein called flagellin and is responsible for providing motility to these cells.

    The flagellum is typically made up of three distinct parts: the filament, hook, and basal body. The filament is the longest region and acts as the core of the flagellum, being composed of multiple flagellin subunits arranged in a helical pattern. The hook is a flexible joint that connects the filament to the basal body, allowing for rotational movement. The basal body is the embedded region that anchors the flagellum to the cell's membrane and contains the motor apparatus responsible for propelling the flagellum.

    The flagellum functions by rotating rapidly in a clockwise or counterclockwise manner, generating a whip-like motion that propels the cell forward or aids in movement in liquid environments. This mechanism allows bacteria to swim towards favorable conditions or escape from harmful environments, protozoa to move towards food sources, and sperm cells to navigate through various reproductive pathways.

    In addition to locomotion, the flagellum also has sensory functions in some organisms. It can sense changes in chemicals, temperature, light, or mechanical stimuli, enabling cells to orient themselves towards or away from specific stimuli in their environment. Overall, the flagellum is a remarkable organelle that plays a fundamental role in the movement and sensory capabilities of certain cells.

  2. A long hair-like process, or cilium, attached to an extremity of a protozoon or bacterium; there may be one or more flagella at each extremity.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. In bot., a weak creeping stem, bearing rooting buds at different points, as in the strawberry.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for FLAGELLUM

Etymology of FLAGELLUM

The word "flagellum" is derived from the Latin term "flagellum" which means "whip" or "lash". The Latin word itself comes from the verb "flagellare", meaning "to whip". The term "flagellum" describes a whip-like appendage present in certain organisms, such as bacteria or unicellular organisms, that is involved in movement or other functions.

Similar spelling words for FLAGELLUM

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Correct spelling for flagellum
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