denticle

noun

den·​ti·​cle ˈden-ti-kəl How to pronounce denticle (audio)
: a conical pointed projection (such as a small tooth)

Examples of denticle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Unique to this species is a white band of denticles across its upper jaw, which researchers believe could reflect bioluminescent light from deep-sea plankton, potentially attracting prey in the dark waters where these sharks often roam. Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 Stingray barbs are a kind of dermal denticle—like a tooth—on a tail that can be whipped around. Katharine Gammon, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 June 2024 Winning combination The authors of this latest paper focused on how the great white shark's denticles might reduce friction drag. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 12 Aug. 2024 Enlarge / Great white sharks can reduce drag at different swimming speeds thanks to high and low ridged denticles in its skin. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 12 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for denticle 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin denticulus, diminutive of dent-, dens

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of denticle was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near denticle

Cite this Entry

“Denticle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/denticle. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

denticle

noun
den·​ti·​cle ˈdent-i-kəl How to pronounce denticle (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on denticle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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