Echinate

/ˈɛkɪneɪt/ adjective

Definition

Having spines, prickles, or a spiny appearance; covered with small sharp projections resembling hedgehog quills.

Etymology

From Greek 'echinos' (ἐχῖνος) meaning 'hedgehog' or 'spiny,' with the adjectival suffix '-ate.' Used in biology to describe structures covered with spine-like projections.

Kelly Says

In botany and zoology, calling something 'echinate' is much more precise than just saying 'spiky'—it specifically means having regularly-spaced, sharp protrusions, like sea urchin spines or cactus needles!

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