Ferulae

/ˈfɛr.ə.liː/ noun

Definition

Plural of ferula in Latin form; multiple rods, sticks, or fennel plants of the ferula type.

Etymology

Latin plural form of ferula. In English scientific and botanical writing, Latin plurals are sometimes retained, particularly in older or highly formal texts.

Kelly Says

When scientists want to sound especially authoritative, they use Latin plurals like 'ferulae' instead of 'ferulas'—it's a form of linguistic gatekeeping that has slowly been disappearing from modern English.

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