Fusiform

/ˈfjuːzɪfɔːrm/ adjective

Definition

Shaped like a spindle; gradually tapering at both ends, as in spindle-shaped objects, cells, or organisms.

Etymology

From Latin fusus (spindle) and -form (shaped like). Used across biology, anatomy, and marine science to describe elongated, tapered shapes.

Kelly Says

Fusiform bodies describe sharks and dolphins—their spindle shape is why they're so fast in water, a hydrodynamic design that engineers copy when building submarines and torpedoes.

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