Caruncle (Noun)
Meaning
An outgrowth on a plant or animal such as a fowl's wattle or a protuberance near the hilum of certain seeds.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The fowl's caruncle, also known as the wattle, was bright red and highly visible as it flapped its wings.
- In botany, a caruncle is a small, fleshy outgrowth near the hilum of certain seeds, such as those of the ricinus plant.
- The distinctive caruncle on the beak of the cassowary was thought to be an evolutionary adaptation to help the bird attract mates.
- A small caruncle near the hilum of the castor oil seed is one of its identifying features.
- Some bird species have caruncles on their heads or necks, which are highly sensitive to touch and may aid in detecting food or navigating in the dark.