Evaginate

/ɪˈvædʒɪneɪt/ verb

Definition

To turn or extend outward; in medical terms, to protrude or cause (tissue or an organ) to come out of its normal position or sheath.

Etymology

From Latin 'evaginare' (e- out + vagina sheath) meaning to unsheathe. It's a technical term used in medical, zoological, and botanical contexts.

Kelly Says

A sea star can evaginate its stomach to digest prey larger than its mouth—it pushes its stomach out, wraps it around the food, and digests it externally before retracting, which is absolutely wild.

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