Barbule

Pronunciation: /ˈbɑːrˌbjuːl/

Definitions of barbule

noun a very small barb or pointed projection on a feather or fish scale

Example Sentences

A1 The bird's feather had a small barbule sticking out.

A2 The barbule on the plant's stem helped it attach to nearby surfaces.

B1 Microscopic barbules on the butterfly's wings give them their vibrant colors.

B2 The scientist studied the barbules of the fish to understand its unique adaptation.

C1 The intricate structure of the barbules in the peacock's feathers fascinated the researchers.

C2 The artist meticulously painted each barbule on the bird's wing to capture its beauty.

Examples of barbule in a Sentence

formal The barbule is a small, branching structure found on feathers.

informal I learned about barbules in my biology class - they help feathers stay connected.

slang Check out the cool barbules on this bird's feather!

figurative The barbules of society are what hold us all together in times of need.

Grammatical Forms of barbule

• plural: barbules
• comparative: more barbule
• superlative: most barbule
• present tense: barbule
• future tense: will barbule
• perfect tense: have barbuled
• continuous tense: is barbuling
• singular: barbule
• positive degree: barbule
• infinitive: to barbule
• gerund: barbuling
• participle: barbuled

Origin and Evolution of barbule

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'barbule' is derived from the Latin word 'barbula', which means 'small beard'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in reference to the small, hair-like projections on feathers, the term 'barbule' has evolved to also describe similar structures in other contexts, such as in plants or microscopic organisms.