arachnoid

/ə'ræknɔid/

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Basic Explanation

The word "arachnoid" can be used as both an adjective and a noun.

Usage Instructions

• Adjective Use: You can use "arachnoid" to describe something that looks or is related to spiders, like "arachnoid features" in a scientific context.
• Noun Use: In a medical context, you might say, "The arachnoid layer protects the brain."

Example Sentences

• Adjective: "The arachnoid web was beautifully spun, showing off the spider's intricate design."
• Noun: "The doctor mentioned that the inflammation was in the arachnoid membrane."

Advanced Usage

In more advanced contexts, "arachnoid" can be used in scientific discussions about biology or medicine. For example, "The arachnoid mater is essential for cerebrospinal fluid circulation."

Word Variants

• Arachnid (noun): Refers to the class of animals that includes spiders and scorpions.
• Arachnoiditis (noun): A medical condition involving inflammation of the arachnoid membrane.

Different Meanings

While "arachnoid" primarily relates to spiders and the anatomical layer in the brain, it can also be used metaphorically in literature or poetry to describe something delicate or intricate, similar to a spider's web.

Synonyms

• For the anatomical context, you might use "meningeal" (related to the meninges).
• For the descriptive context related to spiders, there aren't direct synonyms, but you could use terms like "spider-like" or "web-like."

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs that specifically include "arachnoid," but you might encounter phrases involving "webs" when discussing complex situations, such as "weaving a web of deceit."

Summary

In summary, "arachnoid" is a specific term that can refer to either something related to spiders or a crucial layer in the anatomy of the brain and spinal cord. Use it in scientific, medical, or descriptive contexts to convey specific meanings.

Academic

Adjective

1. relating to or resembling a member of the class Arachnida

Noun

1. air-breathing arthropods characterized by simple eyes and four pairs of legs
2. the middle of the 3 meninges

Synonyms

• arachnidian
• spidery
• spiderlike
• spiderly
• arachnid
• arachnoid membrane