raphe

[ rey-fee ]

noun

, plural ra·phae [rey, -fee].

1. Anatomy. a seamlike union between two parts or halves of an organ or the like.
2. Botany.
   1. (in certain ovules) a ridge connecting the hilum with the chalaza.
   2. a median line or slot on a cell wall of a diatom.

raphe

/ ˈreɪfɪ /

noun

1. an elongated ridge of conducting tissue along the side of certain seeds
2. a longitudinal groove on the valve of a diatom
3. anatomy a connecting ridge, such as that between the two halves of the medulla oblongata

raphe

/ rā′fē′ /

, Plural raphae rā′fē′

1. A seamlike line or ridge between two similar parts of a body organ, as in the scrotum.
2. The portion of the funiculus that is united to the ovule wall, commonly visible as a line or ridge on the seed coat.
3. A groove in the frustule of some diatoms.

Word History and Origins

Origin of raphe¹

1745–55; < New Latin < Greek rhaphḗ seam, suture, akin to rháptein to sew, stitch together

Word History and Origins

Origin of raphe¹

C18: via New Latin from Greek rhaphē a seam, from rhaptein to sew together

Example Sentences

Ward obtained the unexpected result that it was confined to the raphe of the seed.

From Project Gutenberg

Seeds large, usually slightly notched; chalaza rather narrow; raphe a groove.

From Project Gutenberg

Seeds small to very small, slightly notched on top; chalaza depressed, oblong-oval; raphe broad, slightly distinct.

From Project Gutenberg

Seeds two to three of medium size; chalaza oval in shape, slightly distinct; raphe flat, usually inconspicuous, rarely prominent.

From Project Gutenberg

Seeds small to medium, plump, slightly notched, if at all; chalaza oblong-oval; raphe slightly distinct or invisible.

From Project Gutenberg