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crenature

crenature

9.9
A row of small rounded curves or notches along an edge, like on leaves and shells
  • noun
  • /ˈkrɛnəˌtʃʊr/
  • Specialized
translation icon : crenatura
  • The crenature of a maple leaf is often used to identify the species.

Examples

  • The crenature along the shell's edge made it easy to distinguish from similar species.

  • Can you see the crenatures on that shell?

  • Under the microscope, the crenature of the red blood cells was clearly visible.

  • The crenature of the leaf made it look unique.

  • The crenature along the shell's edge made it easy to distinguish from similar species.

  • The crenature of a maple leaf is often used to identify the species.

  • Under the microscope, the crenature of the red blood cells was clearly visible.

Synonyms

scallop
vscrenature
3 6.9

A small rounded curve on the edge of a leaf or cloth

can describe such features without implying a small size
crenelle
vscrenature
  • Specialized
9.9

A small rounded part on the edge of a leaf, shell or cell

is the broader term for series of curved edge projections or indentations
crenel
vscrenature
  • Specialized
9.9

A small notch in the edge of a leaf, shell or border

refers specifically to rounded curves rather than square cuts

How Notched

serrate
1 7.5
crenature
  • Specialized
9.9
undy
  • Archaic
9.9
smooth
256 1.0

Surface Forms

crenature singular
crenatures plural

Morphology

crenature = crenate (semi-transparent) = crenate + ure

Formed by regular suffixation of the specialized adjective 'crenate', but the base and the suffix are botanical/technical and may be unfamiliar to general learners.

Etymology

The word crenature comes from an old root crena meaning 'notch', and it names the small rounded notches or curves along an edge, like the scalloped edge of a leaf or shell. So, to remember crenature, think of tiny 'notches' running along the rim.