Words are the building blocks of language, and with over a million words in the English language, it’s no wonder that some words are less commonly used than others. One such word is “auriculate.” This article will explore the definition and meaning of “auriculate” and its associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
The word “auriculate” is an adjective that describes something that has a shape resembling an ear or has ear-shaped projections. It can also refer to something that is provided with an ear-like appendage, such as a leaf or a shell.
Origin
The word “auriculate” comes from the Latin word “auricula,” which means “little ear.” It was first used in English in the mid-17th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, “auriculate” means “having ear-shaped appendages or lobes.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “having ear-like projections or appendages.”
Associations
The word “auriculate” is often associated with the natural world, such as the shape of leaves or the shells of certain animals. It can also be used to describe the shape of certain man-made objects, such as a piece of jewelry or a decorative element in architecture.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “auriculate” include ear-shaped, lobed, auriform, and auricled.
Antonyms
Antonyms for “auriculate” include smooth, flat, and unlobed.
The same root words
The root word “auricula” is also found in other English words, such as “auricle” (the external part of the ear) and “auricular” (related to the ear).
Example Sentences
- The leaves of this plant are auriculate, giving them a distinctive shape.
- The seashell was auriculate, with ear-like projections on either side.
- The earrings were designed with auriculate shapes, giving them a unique look.
- The architect incorporated auriculate elements into the design of the building, adding visual interest.
- The artist used the auriculate shape in their painting, creating a sense of movement and flow.