flagellum

noun

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fla·gel·lum | \ flə-ˈje-ləm

plural flagella\ flə-ˈje-lə

\ also flagellums

Definition of flagellum

: any of various elongated filiform appendages of plants or animals: such as

a : the slender distal part of an antenna

b : a long tapering process that projects singly or in groups from a cell and is the primary organ of motion of many microorganisms

Examples of flagellum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Microscopic examinations revealed the spore surface is lined with rows of proteins called rodlins that may grab a passing flagellum—working much like Velcro. — Elizabeth Pennisi, Science | AAAS, "This microscopic hitchhiker is a friend to both plants and humans," 22 Mar. 2021 These organisms use a long, tail-like structure called a flagellum to move about. — Scientific American, "Nanomachines, Jellyfish Hugs and Hurricane Dorian From Space: The Week's Best Science GIFs," 30 Aug. 2019 The most well known is the amoeba, but these microbes come in several forms, including species that move with a single flagellum or with hairlike cilia. — Adrian Higgins, idahostatesman, "The zoo beneath our feet: We’re only beginning to understand soil’s hidden world," 23 Aug. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'flagellum.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.