Dictionary.com
definitions
  • synonyms

barbellate

[bahr-buh-leyt, bahr-bel-it, -eyt]
See more synonyms for barbellate on Thesaurus.com
adjective Botany, Zoology.
  1. having short, stiff hairs.
Show More

Origin of barbellate

1840–50; < New Latin barbell(a), diminutive of Latin barbula little beard (see barbule, -elle) + -ate1
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for barbellate

Historical Examples

  • Pappus of 15–40 capillary bristles, manifestly plumose or only barbellate.

    The Manual of the Botany of the Northern United States

    Asa Gray

British Dictionary definitions for barbellate

barbellate

adjective
  1. (of plants or plant organs) covered with barbs, hooks, or bristles
  2. (of animals) possessing bristles or barbels
Show More

Word Origin

C19: from New Latin barbellātus, from barbella short stiff hair, from Latin barbula a little beard, from barba beard
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012