barbicel

[ bahr-buh-sel ]

noun

, Ornithology.

1. one of the minute processes fringing the barbules of certain feathers.

barbicel

/ ˈbɑːbɪˌsɛl /

noun

1. ornithol any of the minute hooks on the barbules of feathers that interlock with those of adjacent barbules

Word History and Origins

Origin of barbicel¹

1865–70; < New Latin barbicella, equivalent to Latin barbi- (combining form of barba beard) + -cella diminutive suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of barbicel¹

C19: from New Latin barbicella , literally: a small beard, from Latin barba beard