Flagellum

Pronunciation: /fləˈdʒɛləm/

Definitions of flagellum

noun a long, whiplike appendage that is used by many microscopic organisms for movement

Example Sentences

A1 A flagellum is a whip-like structure that helps some cells move.

A2 Bacteria use flagella for locomotion by spinning them like propellers.

B1 The flagellum of sperm cells helps them swim towards the egg for fertilization.

B2 Flagella are essential for the motility of certain protozoa in their environment.

C1 The flagellum of bacteria is a complex molecular machine that allows for efficient movement.

C2 Research on flagellar structure and function has provided insights into evolutionary biology and bioengineering.

Examples of flagellum in a Sentence

formal The flagellum is a whip-like structure used by some single-celled organisms for movement.

informal The little creature swam around using its flagellum like a tiny oar.

slang That microorganism was zooming around with its flagellum like a boss.

figurative His flagellum-like tongue lashed out in anger as he shouted at the referee.

Grammatical Forms of flagellum

• plural: flagella
• comparative: more flagellated
• superlative: most flagellated
• present tense: flagellates
• future tense: will flagellate
• perfect tense: has flagellated
• continuous tense: is flagellating
• singular: flagellum
• positive degree: flagellum
• infinitive: to flagellate
• gerund: flagellating
• participle: flagellating

Origin and Evolution of flagellum

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'flagellum' originated from Latin, where it means 'whip' or 'lash'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to refer to a whip or lash, the term 'flagellum' later came to be used in biology to describe a whip-like structure found on certain cells, such as bacteria and protozoa, used for movement.