spic-, spiculi-
(Latin: point, spike)
spica
1. A kind of bandage passing, by successive turns and crosses, from an extremity to the trunk; so called from its resemblance to a spike on a grain of barley.
2. A star of the first magnitude situated in the constellation Virgo.
spicate, spiciferous
1. Spiked; arranged in spikes; such as, an inflorescence.
2. Bearing spikes.
3. With spur-like prominence
spiciform
Spike-shaped.
spicose
With spikes or ears; such as, corn.
spicose, spicous
Having spikes, or ears, like corn (maise) spikes.
spicula
1. A small spike.
2. A needle-like body.
3. A little spike; a spikelet.
4. A small pointed fleshy appendage.
spicule
1. A minute needle-like body, siliceous or calcareous, found in invertebrates.
2. A needle-like body.
3. A small pointed structure serving as a skeletal element in various marine and freshwater invertebrates; such as, sponges and corals.
spicules
Small needlelike structures or parts; such as, the silicates or calcium carbonate processes supporting the soft tissue of certain invertebrates; especially, sponges.
spiculiferous
Furnished with or protected by spicules (needle-like protrusions).
spiculiform
Spicule-shaped.
spiculigenous
Producing or containing spicules (small, slender, sharp-pointed pieces).
spiculum
1. A spicular structure.
2. The dart of a snail.
3. The pointed tip of a sterigma.
A sterigma is a slender, pointed structure arising from a basidium upon which a basidiospore (spores or reproductive elements of lower organisms) will develop.
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