Auriculate

/ɔːˈrɪkjəleɪt/ adjective

Definition

Having ears or ear-shaped projections; possessing auricular structures or appendages.

Etymology

From Latin auriculatus, meaning 'having ears,' formed from auricula (little ear) with the suffix -ate meaning 'having' or 'characterized by.' This biological descriptor became standard in anatomy and botany.

Kelly Says

Scientists use this word to describe everything from fungi with ear-like appendages to heart chambers—nature keeps reusing the ear shape because it's great for both hearing and moving fluid efficiently.

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