Describing a leaf margin with sharp teeth that point outward perpendicular to the leaf edge, rather than forward toward the apex. The teeth resemble animal teeth in their orientation.
From Latin 'dentatus' meaning 'toothed,' from 'dens' meaning 'tooth.' The term entered botanical vocabulary in the 18th century to distinguish this specific type of toothed margin from serrate margins.
The difference between dentate and serrate is all about direction - dentate teeth stick straight out like a crocodile's smile, while serrate teeth lean forward like a shark's! This subtle difference can be crucial for plant identification.
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