vibraculum

[ vahy-brak-yuh-luhm ]

noun

, plural vi·brac·u·la [vahy-, brak, -y, uh, -l, uh].

1. any of the modified polyps on the surface of certain bryozoan colonies, having a long, whiplike appendage that clears away debris.

vibraculum

/ vaɪˈbrækjʊləm /

noun

1. zoology any of the specialized bristle-like polyps in certain bryozoans, the actions of which prevent parasites from settling on the colony

Derived Forms

• viˈbracular, adjective
• viˈbracuˌloid, adjective

Other Words From

• vi·bracu·lar adjective
• vi·bracu·loid adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of vibraculum¹

1850–55; < New Latin, equivalent to Latin vibrā ( re ) to shake + -culum -cule ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of vibraculum¹

C19: from New Latin, from Latin vibrāre to brandish

Example Sentences

Vibraculum, vī-brak′ū-lum, n. one of the long whip-like appendages of the cells of some Polyzoa:—pl.

From Project Gutenberg

Opening of cell broad oval, pointed below; three short indistinct spines above; vibraculum large, sinus deep.

From Project Gutenberg

Cells elongate, external side nearly straight, vibraculum sublateral, very prominent.

From Project Gutenberg

Each marginal cell with a single large vibraculum in front below the mouth.

From Project Gutenberg

Character: (B.) cells rhomboidal, sinuated on the outer side for the lodgment of a vibraculum.

From Project Gutenberg