carinate
- adjective
- /ˈkɛrɪneɪt/
- Specialized
- Some bird species are distinguished by having a carinate sternum.
Examples
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The leaf margins are carinate, forming a distinct ridge along the edge.
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The orchid's carinate sepal helps identify its species.
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The carinate structure of the leaf helps it to withstand strong winds.
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Some species of fish have carinate bodies that enhance their swimming ability.
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Some bird species are distinguished by having a carinate sternum, which aids in muscle attachment for flight.
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The leaf margins are carinate, forming a distinct ridge that enhances the leaf's structural integrity.
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The carinate shape of the orchid's sepal distinguishes it from other flowers and assists in pollination.
Synonyms
Having a raised ridge like the bottom of a boat on a plant or animal
Having raised lines or bands on the surface like a coin edge
Having a raised ridge like the bottom of a boat on a plant or animal part
Having a long raised line like the bottom of a boat
Relating to a ridge inside the body, for example where the windpipe splits
Compounds
- Specialized
A bird with a raised ridge on its breastbone that holds strong wing muscles
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Carinate comes from the Latin carina, meaning 'keel', the long ridge under a boat. So a carinate leaf, bone, or shell has a raised ridge like a boat's keel, which helps explain the word's modern use.