Definition

A small fluffy mass or tuft, often found in anatomy as part of the cerebellum, or in astronomy as cloudlike masses on the sun's surface.

Example

The flocculus in the cerebellum plays a role in balance and coordination.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the flocculus shapes in the clouds?

Yeah, it’s fascinating how they look like little tufts of cotton!

I read that some of those flocculus formations can even indicate weather changes.

That makes sense; they really can look quite different before a storm.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Flocculus is derived from the Latin "floccus" (meaning a tuft or lock of wool), which is a diminutive form of "floccus" (meaning a small tuft). The suffix "-ulus" in Latin indicates a diminutive form. Thus, flocculus refers to a small tuft or lock, often used in a biological context to describe small, fluffy structures.

Memory Tip

Think of a small 'tuft' of wool ('floccus') to remember that 'flocculus' refers to a small fluffy structure.

Visually Confused Words