Definition

A small rounded bump or outgrowth found on plants, animals, or bones, often associated with certain medical conditions.

Example

The doctor noted a tubercle on the patient's skin during the examination.

Conversation

I was reading about plant biology, and I came across the term tubercle.

Oh, I've heard that before! What does it mean exactly?

It's a small rounded projection on plants, like a knob or a wart.

That’s interesting! Nature has so many unique features.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tubercle → It is formed from "tuber" (from Latin *tuber*, meaning swelling or lump) and the diminutive suffix "-cle" (meaning small). The word "tubercle" refers to a small swelling or lump, often used in a medical context to describe small nodules or bumps on the body.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'swelling' ('tuber') that is 'small' ('-cle') — that's why a tubercle refers to a small lump or nodule.

Visually Confused Words