Dictionary > Cilium

Cilium

Definition
noun, plural: cilia
(biology)
Microscopic, hair-like projection on the surfaces of some cells and of certain organisms.
(botany)
Any of the hair forming a fringe along the margin or edge of a plant structure, e.g. of a leaf.
(anatomy)
The eyelash.
Supplement
Cilia are generally of two kinds: motile cilia (for locomotion) and non-motile cilia (for sensory). Example of tissue cells with cilia are the epithelia lining the lungs that sweep away fluids or particles. Examples of organisms that have cilia are protozoans that use them for movement.
Word origin: NL, pl. of cilium eyelash, L: upper eyelid.
Related phrases: immotile cilia syndrome.
Compare: flagellum.

Last updated on March 1st, 2021

You will also like...

DNA carries genes coding for proteins
Genetic Information and Protein Synthesis

Genes are expressed through the process of protein synthesis. This elaborate tutorial provides an in-depth review of the..

Origins of Life on Earth
Origins of Life on Earth

Earth was created around 4.5 billion years ago and life began not long after. Primitive life likely possessed the elemen..

An artist depiction of a Precambrian multicellular life form.
The Evolution of Cell Organelles

The nucleus containing the genetic material, DNA, and the mitochondria, well-identified as the "powerhouse of the cell",..

Neural Control Mechanisms
Neural Control Mechanisms

Neurons generate electric signals that they pass along to the other neurons or target tissues. In this tutorial, you wil..

Schematic diagram of bacterial lactose operon
Gene Action – Operon Hypothesis

Learn how the way genes control and determine every aspect of the body. This lesson uses lac operon as an example. ..

..

Ecosystem Succession
Ecosystem Succession

If the balance of nature is left untouched, landscapes can change dramatically over time. A previous ecosystem is supers..