Apteral is a word that is not commonly used in everyday language. However, it is a word that has a specific meaning and is often used in scientific and architectural contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of apteral, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Apteral is an adjective that refers to something that is without wings or having no lateral extensions. It is often used to describe architectural structures that do not have any projecting wings or extensions. In zoology, apteral is used to describe insects that do not have wings, such as ants and some species of beetles.
Origin
The word apteral comes from the Greek word “apteron,” which means “wingless.” The word was first used in the English language in the early 18th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of apteral is consistent across different dictionaries. The Oxford English Dictionary defines apteral as “having no lateral extensions or wings.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “lacking wings or lateral processes.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “having no wings or side parts.”
Associations
Apteral is often associated with architecture and zoology. In architecture, it is used to describe buildings or structures that do not have any projecting wings or extensions. In zoology, it is used to describe insects that do not have wings.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of apteral include wingless, non-winged, and without lateral extensions.
Antonyms
The antonyms of apteral are words like winged, extended, and projecting.
The same root words
The root word of apteral is “apteron,” which means “wingless.” Other words that have the same root word include apteryx (a flightless bird), apterous (having no wings), and apterygial (relating to the absence of wings).
Example Sentences
- The apteral design of the building was unique and modern.
- The ant is an apteral insect that relies on its strong legs to move.
- The beetle was apterous, unable to fly due to its lack of wings.
- The apteryx is a bird that is native to New Zealand and cannot fly due to its small wings.