A brush-shaped implement for sprinkling holy water; also the feminine form of aspergillum in Latin, or referring to the brush-like structures of certain fungi.
From Latin 'aspergilla', the feminine diminutive of 'aspergillum', derived from 'aspergere' (to sprinkle). The diminutive suffix '-illa/-ella' emphasizes the small, delicate brush-like nature of the instrument.
The term 'aspergilla' is etymologically fascinating because it shows how Latin grammar—using gender and diminutive forms—persisted in specialized English terminology, allowing single Latin roots to express different sizes and genders as scientists and priests needed to be precise about different implements.
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