axillary

[ ak-suh-ler-ee ]

adjective

1. Anatomy, Ornithology. pertaining to the axilla.
2. Botany. pertaining to or growing from the axil.

noun

, plural ax·il·lar·ies.

1. Ornithology. axillar.

axillary

/ ækˈsɪlərɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or near the armpit
2. botany growing in or related to the axil

   an axillary bud

noun

1. Also calledaxillarækˈsɪləˈæksɪlə usually plural one of the feathers growing from the axilla of a bird's wing

Other Words From

• inter·axil·lary adjective
• post·axil·lary adjective
• super·axil·lary adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of axillary¹

First recorded in 1605–15; axill(a) + -ary

Example Sentences

The axillary glands are still enlarged, though less so than formerly.

From Project Gutenberg

Shave carefully in the axillary line and disinfect the denuded skin.

From Project Gutenberg

Examples occur in the axillary buds of Lilium bulbiferum, in some Alliums, etc.

From Project Gutenberg

The stem is erect and freely branched, bearing feathery bunches of bristled leaves and pale-yellow axillary flowers.

From Project Gutenberg

Solanace—Herbs with alternate leaves and axillary clusters of regular flowers.

From Project Gutenberg