rostellum

[ ro-stel-uhm ]

noun

, plural ros·tel·la [ro-, stel, -, uh].

1. Biology. any small, beaklike process.
2. Botany. a beaklike modification of the stigma in many orchids.
3. Zoology.
   1. a projecting part of the scolex in certain tapeworms.
   2. a part of the mouth in many insects, designed for sucking.

rostellum

/ rɒˈstɛləm /

noun

1. biology a small beaklike process, such as the hooked projection from the top of the head in tapeworms or the outgrowth from the stigma of an orchid

Derived Forms

• rosˈtellate, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rostellum¹

1750–60; < New Latin; Latin: little beak, snout, diminutive of rōstrum snout ( rostrum ); for formation, castellum

Word History and Origins

Origin of rostellum¹

C18: from Latin: a little beak, from rōstrum a beak

Example Sentences

I would give a good deal to know what the rostellum is, of which I have traced so many curious modifications.

From Project Gutenberg

Rostellum: a small beak; applied to the mouth parts of sucking lice: also used in Hemiptera, as = rostrum; q.v.

From Project Gutenberg

Anthera fere immersa, Rostellum integrum ut in omnibus glandula orbotis Pollinia 8. 

From Project Gutenberg

As nectar is already secreted for her in its receptacle, she thrusts her tongue through the channel provided to guide it aright, and by the slight contact with the furrowed rostellum, it splits, and releases a boat-shaped disk standing vertically on its stern in the passage.

From Project Gutenberg

The splitting of the rostellum, curiously enough, never happens without insect aid; but if a bristle or needle be passed over it ever so lightly, a stream of sticky, milky fluid exudes, hardens, and the boat-shaped disk, with pollen masses attached, may be withdrawn on the bristle just as the bee removes them with her tongue.

From Project Gutenberg