Capreolate

/kæˈpriːəleɪt/ adjective

Definition

Having tendrils or spiral structures resembling the branching pattern of a deer's antlers; spiral-shaped like a roe deer's horns.

Etymology

From capreolus, meaning a roe deer, plus -ate forming an adjective; it describes things that spiral or branch like a deer's antlers.

Kelly Says

Capreolate tendrils on climbing plants are nature's perfect helixes—they spiral and coil exactly like a roe deer's antlers, which is why botanists borrowed the deer's Latin name to describe them!

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