Definition

A hard, glass-like shell made of silica that surrounds a diatom, which is a type of microscopic algae.

Example

Under the microscope, you can see the intricate patterns on the frustule of the diatom.

Conversation

Hey, have you ever heard of a frustule?

Yeah, I think it's that unique shell some diatoms have, right?

Exactly! I find it fascinating how they use their frustule for protection.

Me too! It's amazing how nature creates such intricate structures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Frustule → It originates from the Latin word 'frustulum' (meaning a small piece or fragment). The word 'frustule' refers to the small, hard, siliceous shell of diatoms, which can be seen as a small piece of the organism.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'small piece' ('frustulum') to remember that a frustule is a tiny, hard shell of a diatom.

Visually Confused Words