Main Entry: vi·bris·sa

Pronunciation: \vī-ˈbris-ə, və-\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural vi·bris·sae \vī-ˈbris-(ˌ)ē; və-ˈbris-(ˌ)ē, -ī\

1 : any of the stiff hairs that are located especially about the nostrils or on other parts of the face in many mammals and that often serve as tactile organs
2 : any of the stiff hairs growing within the nostrils that serve to impede the inhalation of foreign substances

—vi·bris·sal \-əl\ adjective