How Do You Spell RETUSE?

Pronunciation: [ɹɪtjˈuːs] (IPA)

The word "Retuse" is spelled with a distinct "t" sound followed by a "yoo" sound, represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /rɛtjuːs/. This word is often used to describe the shape of leaves or other botanical structures that have a blunt, rounded tip. The pronunciation of "Retuse" is important to accurately convey the intended meaning of the word, and mastering the phonetic transcription can help ensure that the word is used correctly in speech and writing.

RETUSE Meaning and Definition

1. Retuse is an adjective that describes a specific shape or form of a leaf or an apex. It is used to describe a leaf with a rounded or slightly indented tip, where the terminal point is shallowly notched or has a small incurving notch. The term originates from the Latin word "retusus," meaning "cut short" or "blunted."

   When a leaf is retuse, it means that the apex of the leaf is truncated or appears as if it has been cut off. The tip lacks a distinct point and instead has a shallow depression or a gentle curve. This can create a distinctiveness in the leaf's overall appearance, giving it a rounded or blunt-ended shape.

   The retuse shape can be observed in various plant species, particularly in succulents and certain types of cacti. It serves as an adaptation to the arid or dry conditions in which these plants typically grow. By having a retuse shape, the leaf minimizes the surface area exposed to evaporation, helping these plants conserve moisture.

   Overall, the term "retuse" is essential in botanical classification and identification as it describes a specific leaf shape characterized by a truncated or slightly indented apex. It conveys an important anatomical characteristic that contributes to the overall morphology and ecological adaptation of a plant species.

2. In bot., having the extremity broad, blunt, and slightly depressed; appearing as if bitten off at the end.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for RETUSE

• rettus
• rettuse
• eetuse
• tetuse
• 5etuse
• 4etuse
• rwtuse
• rstuse
• rdtuse
• rrtuse
• r4tuse
• r3tuse
• re6use
• re5use
• retyse
• rethse
• retjse
• ret8se
• ret7se
• retuae

Etymology of RETUSE

The word "retuse" comes from the Latin term "retusus", which is the past participle of the verb "retundere". "Retundere" is formed by combining the prefix "re-" (indicating back or again) and "tundere" (meaning to beat or strike). In Latin, "retundere" referred to the act of striking or beating an object to make it blunt or rounded. Over time, this term evolved into "retusus", which means "blunted" or "made blunt", and eventually gave rise to the English word "retuse". In botanical terminology, "retuse" is used to describe leaves that have a blunt tip with a shallow notch or indentation at the apex.