PALMATE Meaning and
Definition
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Palmate is an adjective that describes a particular shape or arrangement resembling the form of a palm of the hand. Derived from the Latin word "palmatus" meaning "bearing palms," it is often used to depict structures in nature, particularly in plants and animals.
In botany, palmate refers to the arrangement of leaf veins radiating from a common point, resembling the shape of an outspread hand with fingers. This term describes a type of leaf that usually has three or more lobes or leaflets originating from a central point, making them resemble a handprint. Examples of palmate leaves can be found in many plants, including maple trees, certain ferns, and palm trees.
In zoology, palmate denotes the webbed or fused structure of certain animals' limbs or appendages. It refers to a physical adaptation in which the digits or extremities are joined by skin or membrane, enabling efficient locomotion in aquatic environments. Ducks and geese, for instance, have palmate feet as their toes are connected by a web of skin, facilitating swimming and navigating through water.
Furthermore, the term "palmate" can also describe other objects or items that exhibit a similar shape or arrangement to the palm of the hand, regardless of whether they are natural or man-made, such as palmate antlers or palmate handles on tools or utensils.
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In botany, noting a leaf about as broad as long.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In bot., having the shape of the open hand with the fingers apart, as in some leaves; entirely webbed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PALMATE
Etymology of PALMATE
The word "palmate" derives from the Latin term "palmatus", which means "shaped like an open hand" or "having a palm-like appearance". It comes from the Latin noun "palma", meaning "palm of the hand" or "palm tree", which ultimately traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*pel-", denoting "to feel", "to touch", or "to shake". This term found its way into English in the early 18th century, primarily used to describe leaf shapes that resemble the outstretched fingers of a hand.
Similar spelling words for PALMATE
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