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Glite Dictionary
retiform

retiform

9.9
A net-like pattern of thin lines often seen in tissues
  • adjective
  • /ˈrɛtɪˌfɔrm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : retiforme
  • Certain tumors display a retiform pattern when viewed under a microscope.

Examples

  • The scientist described the network of veins as having a retiform arrangement.

  • The pathologist noted a retiform structure in the tissue sample.

  • This is a retiform structure.

  • Look at that retiform shape!

  • The pathologist noted a retiform structure in the tissue sample.

  • Certain tumors display a retiform pattern when viewed under a microscope.

  • The scientist described the network of veins as having a retiform arrangement.

Synonyms

reticular
vsretiform
  • Specialized
2 8.4

Having a pattern of thin lines that cross like a net

is used mainly for biological tissues with a meshlike appearance
reticulated
vsretiform
7.4

Something with a pattern of lines like a net

focuses on pattern shape while specifically applying to living tissues
meshy
vsretiform
6.2

Having many small holes or connected parts like a net

is used primarily to describe meshlike features in biological tissues
netted
vsretiform
4.4

Material with thin threads and many small holes

is more specific to describing mesh appearance in living tissues

Surface Forms

retiform positive

Morphology

retiform = rete + form

The combining form 'rete-' (net) is obscure to average learners, but the productive suffix '-form' (shape/appearance) gives a partial clue to 'net-like'.

Etymology

The word retiform comes from the Latin rete meaning 'net' and the ending -form meaning 'shape'. So retiform means 'net-shaped', which is why doctors and scientists use it for tissue that looks like a fine mesh.