raphe

noun ra·phe \ ˈrā-(ˌ)fē \

Definition of raphe

1 : the seamlike union of the two lateral halves of a part or organ (such as the tongue) having externally a ridge or furrow

2 a : the part of the stalk of an anatropous ovary that is united in growth to the outside covering and forms a ridge along the body of the ovule

b : the median line or slit of the valve of certain diatoms

Recent Examples of raphe from the Web

The region, known as the dorsal raphe nucleus, or D.R.N., is best known for its link to depression.

— katie hafner, New York Times, "Researchers Confront an Epidemic of Loneliness," 5 Sep. 2016

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

Origin and Etymology of raphe

New Latin, from Greek rhaphē seam, from rhaptein to sew

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: circa 1753

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

raphe

noun ra·phe

variants: also rhaphe play \ˈrā-fē\

medical Definition of raphe

: the seamlike union of the two lateral halves of a part or organ (as of the tongue, perineum, or scrotum) having externally a ridge or furrow and internally usually a fibrous connective tissue septum