pectinate

[ pek-tuh-neyt ]

adjective

1. formed into or having closely parallel, toothlike projections that resemble the teeth of a comb.

pectinate

/ ˈpɛktɪˌneɪt /

adjective

1. shaped like a comb

   pectinate antennae

Derived Forms

• ˌpectiˈnation, noun

Other Words From

• pecti·nately adverb
• pecti·nation noun
• sub·pecti·nate adjective
• sub·pecti·nated adjective
• subpec·ti·nation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pectinate¹

First recorded in 1785–95; from Latin pectinātus, past participle of pectināre “to comb, rake” equivalent to pectin-, stem of pecten “comb, rake” + -ātus past participle suffix; pecten, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of pectinate¹

C18: from Latin pectinātus combed; see pecten

Example Sentences

"I don't suppose you know that the antennæ of that silvery-winged moth are distinctly pectinate," I said.

From Project Gutenberg

Pectinate ligament, to the rightof which is the angle of the chamber.F.

From Project Gutenberg

The end branchlets are acute and pectinate (pecten, a comb), or arranged like the teeth of a comb.

From Project Gutenberg

A ctenoid scale differs in having its posterior margin pectinate.

From Project Gutenberg

The legs are four pairs; they are hairy, and terminated by two or three claws, which are fringed with minute teeth, or pectinate.

From Project Gutenberg