flagellum
/flə'dʤeləm/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A lash-like appendage used for locomotion: A long, slender, whip-like structure that projects from the cell body of certain cells, enabling them to move. It is found in sperm cells, many bacteria, and some protozoa.
- A whip used to inflict punishment: A scourge or whip, often used in a historical, literary, or pedantically humorous context.
Examples of Usage
- Noun (Biological):
- The bacterium propels itself through liquid using its flagellum.
- The sperm cell's flagellum provides the motility necessary for fertilization.
- Noun (Whip):
- The cruel overseer threatened the slaves with a flagellum. (This usage is often pedantic or historical.)
Advanced Usage
- "To bear the flagellum": A literary or archaic phrase meaning to endure scourging or severe punishment.
- The martyr was said to bear the flagellum without a cry.
Variants and Related Words
- Flagella (n): The plural form of flagellum, especially in biological contexts.
- Many motile bacteria possess multiple flagella.
- Flagellar (adj): Relating to or resembling a flagellum.
- The flagellar motor is a complex nanomachine.
- Flagellate (v): To whip or scourge. (adj): Possessing flagella.
- (v) To flagellate oneself as a form of penance.
- (adj) A flagellate protozoan.
Synonyms
- Biological: Cilium (though cilia are typically shorter and more numerous), undulipodium.
- Whip: Scourge, lash, cat-o'-nine-tails.
Related Phrases
- "Flagellum Dei": (Latin: "Scourge of God") A historical epithet, notably for Attila the Hun.
- Attila was called the Flagellum Dei by terrified Romans.
Related Idioms
- None commonly associated directly with the word "flagellum" in modern English idiom. The term is primarily technical or literary.
Noun
- a lash-like appendage used for locomotion (e.g., in sperm cells and some bacteria and protozoa)
- a whip used to inflict punishment (often used for pedantic humor)