fibrillated
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having fine fibers or fibrils: "fibrillated" describes a material or surface that is composed of or covered with very small, thread-like structures (fibrils). This is often used in biology, botany, or materials science.
- In botany: Specifically refers to roots that are thin and hair-like, such as the root system of certain plants (e.g., fibrous roots).
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- The muscle tissue appeared fibrillated under the microscope. (The tissue showed fine, thread-like fibers.)
- The plant had a fibrillated root system, with many tiny hair-like roots. (The roots were thin and fibrous.)
- The fabric was fibrillated after repeated washing, losing its smooth texture. (The fabric developed fine fibers on its surface.)
Advanced Usage
"fibrillated structure": a structural arrangement consisting of small fibers or fibrils.
- The fibrillated structure of the paper gave it a rough, absorbent quality. (The paper’s surface had tiny fibers that absorbed moisture.)
"fibrillated polymer": a polymer that has been processed to form fine fibers or fibrils.
- The fibrillated polymer was used in medical implants for its biocompatibility. (The polymer with fine fibers was suitable for implants.)
Variants and Related Words
Fibril (noun): a small, thin fiber or thread-like structure.
- The fibrils in the wood gave it strength. (The tiny fibers provided structural support.)
Fibrillation (noun): the condition or process of forming fibrils, often used in medicine (e.g., atrial fibrillation).
- The fibrillation of the heart muscle caused irregular beating. (The fine, rapid contractions of heart fibers.)
Fibrillose (adjective): having fibrils; a synonym for "fibrillated" in botanical contexts.
- The fibrillose roots of the grass spread widely. (The roots were fine and hair-like.)
Synonyms
- Fibrous: composed of or resembling fibers.
- Threadlike: resembling a thin thread.
- Hairlike: thin and fine like a hair.
Related Idioms