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Glite Dictionary
❌ X-shaped ❌ To cross over
decussate

decussate

9.9
Crossed in an X shape, like leaves meeting at right angles
  • adjective
  • /dɪˈkʌseɪt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : decusado
  • Some tree leaves are decussate, growing in pairs at right angles to those above and below.

Examples

  • The decussate pattern can be observed in the arrangement of some plant stems.

  • In this species, the branches are decussate at each node.

  • In anatomy, the optic nerves decussate at the optic chiasm.

  • The leaves of the plant are decussate.

  • In anatomy, the optic nerves decussate at the optic chiasm, forming an X-shape.

  • Some tree leaves are decussate, growing in pairs at angles that create an X formation.

  • The decussate arrangement of the plant's branches creates a striking visual pattern.

Synonyms

intersectant
vsdecussate
9.6

Crossing each other to form an X shape

emphasizes crossing at an angle to make an X shape
intersecting
vsdecussate
3.9

A line or path that crosses another, often making an X shape

focuses on parts arranged specifically at an angle to form an X

Surface Forms

decussate positive

Morphology

decussate = decuss + ate

The element 'decuss' is a Latin combining form meaning 'in the form of an X' and is not a standalone English base; the suffix '-ate' is productive, but learners cannot infer the meaning from familiar English morphemes.

Etymology

Decussate comes from the Latin root decuss-, linked to decem meaning 'ten', because the Roman sign for ten is the letter 'X'. So decussate describes parts that are crossed or arranged in an 'X' shape.