tubule

[ too-byool, tyoo- ]

noun

1. a small tube; a minute tubular structure.
2. convoluted tubule.

tubule

/ ˈtjuːbjuːl /

noun

1. any small tubular structure, esp one in an animal, as in the kidney, testis, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of tubule¹

1670–80; < Latin tubulus, equivalent to tub ( us ) pipe + -ulus -ule

Word History and Origins

Origin of tubule¹

C17: from Latin tubulus a little tube

Example Sentences

Normal cells use the nuclear envelope tubules to repair DNA, but cancer cells appear to need them more.

From Science Daily

The remnants of the xylem and phloem — tubules that transport water, sugars and nutrients throughout living leaves — somehow become a root.

From New York Times

"Unlike in other studies, we were able to retain a number of markers in the tubule that are physiologically important in the kidney's reabsorptive functions," says Taub.

From Science Daily

A researcher at the time believed bacteria stuck in dentinal tubules during root canal treatment could “leak,” causing disease in other parts of the body, according to the American Association of Endodontists.

From Seattle Times

Those tiny, strawlike tubules can become blocked by even minuscule amounts of mucus, particularly in infants and young children.

From New York Times