WordNet-Online
Free dictionary and thesaurus of English. Definitions, synonyms, antonyms and more...
Hint: double-click any word to get it searched!

	Enter your search terms Submit search form
	Web www.wordnet-online.com

Definitions from the Web

Term: Flagellum

Description:

A flagellum is a whip-like appendage that protrudes from the cell bodies of certain microorganisms. It is used for locomotion and helps in navigating their surroundings.

In biology, flagellum refers to the long, slender, tail-like structure found in many types of cells, such as bacteria, protozoa, and sperm cells, that enables movement.

Flagellum can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that resembles a whip or a slender projection.

Examples:

Noun (Plural: flagella):

1. The bacteria propel themselves through the water using their flagella.
2. Sperm cells are propelled by the movement of their flagella.
3. The eukaryotic flagella provide motility to protozoans like Paramecium.

Adjective:

1. The flagellar movement is crucial for the survival of these microorganisms.
2. The flagellar beat provides locomotion to certain single-celled organisms.
3. Flagellar motion allows bacteria to move towards nutrients or away from harmful substances.

Verb (Flagellate):

1. The microorganism flagellates through the environment to search for food.
2. Protozoans flagellate rapidly in response to changes in light intensity.
3. Cells with flagella can flagellate in order to move or reposition themselves.

Possible Related Products:

To learn more about flagella and their importance in biology:

• Books on Flagella in Biology
• Microorganism Study Guides