Callate

/ˈkæleɪt/ adjective

Definition

In biology, having or producing callosities; marked by hardened or thickened skin or tissue.

Etymology

From Latin 'callus' (hardened skin) combined with the adjective suffix '-ate'. Medical and biological terminology borrowed heavily from Latin to create precise terms for physical conditions.

Kelly Says

Words like 'callate' show how scientists borrowed Latin terms to describe body features—'callus' literally meant a hard bump on your heel, but scientists extended it to any thickened tissue.

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