'Columella' definitions:
Definition of 'columella'
(from WordNet)
noun
A small column (or structure resembling a column) that is a part of a plant or animal
Definition of 'Columella'
From: GCIDE
- Columella \Col`u*mel"la\, n. [L., dim. of columen column. See Column.]
- 1. (Bot.) (a) An axis to which a carpel of a compound pistil may be attached, as in the case of the geranium; or which is left when a pod opens. (b) A columnlike axis in the capsules of mosses. [1913 Webster]
- 2. (Anat.) A term applied to various columnlike parts; as, the columella, or epipterygoid bone, in the skull of many lizards; the columella of the ear, the bony or cartilaginous rod connecting the tympanic membrane with the internal ear. [1913 Webster]
- 3. (Zool.) (a) The upright pillar in the axis of most univalve shells. (b) The central pillar or axis of the calicles of certain corals. [1913 Webster]