Aculeae

/æˈkju.li.iː/ noun

Definition

Plural form of acula; multiple needle-like structures, spines, or sharp points, especially in scientific description.

Etymology

Latin plural of 'acula' (diminutive of 'acus,' meaning needle). This is the traditional Latin plural form used in scientific nomenclature.

Kelly Says

The weird plural forms 'aculea' and 'aculeae' show why scientists insisted on keeping Latin alive—it lets them use special plural forms that show they're talking about tiny structures, distinguishing 'aculeae' (little needle-like things) from larger 'acus' (needles).

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