Category:Cilia

Cil"i*a, n. pl. Cilium, the sing., is rarely used. Etym: [L. cilium eyelid.]

1. (Anat.)

Defn: The eyelashes.

2. (Biol.)

Defn: Small, generally microscopic, vibrating appendages lining certain organs, as the air passages of the higher animals, and in the lower animals often covering also the whole or a part of the exterior. They are also found on some vegetable organisms. In the Infusoria, and many larval forms, they are locomotive organs.

3. (Bot.)

Defn: Hairlike processes, commonly marginal and forming a fringe like the eyelash.

4. (Zoöl.)

Defn: Small, vibratory, swimming organs, somewhat resembling true cilia, as those of Ctenophora.