pileus

noun

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pi·le·us | \ ˈpī-lē-əs

plural pilei\ ˈpī-lē-ˌī

Definition of pileus

1 [Latin] : a pointed or close-fitting cap worn by ancient Romans

2 : the convex, concave, or flattened spore-bearing structure of some basidiomycetes that is attached superiorly to the stem and typically is expanded with gills or pores on the underside

— called also cap

Examples of pileus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web By the 14th century, pileus caps were becoming taller and more cylindrical, similar to a modern chef’s hat but shorter. — National Geographic, "Why do graduates wear those square hats?," 11 June 2020 This style, the pileus rotundus, was adopted mainly by university students studying law, medicine, and the sciences. — National Geographic, "Why do graduates wear those square hats?," 11 June 2020

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

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Cite this Entry

“Pileus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pileus. Accessed 7 Mar. 2021.

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More Definitions for pileus

pileus

noun

pi·le·us | \ ˈpī-lē-əs

plural pilei\ -lē-ˌī

Medical Definition of pileus

: the convex, concave, or flattened spore-bearing structure of some basidiomycetous fungi that is attached to the top of the stem and typically is expanded with gills or pores on the underside

— called also cap