spicule

 
Pronunciation: /ˈspɪkjuːl/

noun

  • 1 technical a minute sharp-pointed object or structure that is typically present in large numbers, such as a fine particle of ice.
  • Zoology each of the small needle-like or sharp-pointed structures of calcite or silica which make up the skeleton of a sponge.
  • 2 Astronomy a short-lived, relatively small radial jet of gas in the chromosphere or lower corona of the sun.

Derivatives

spicular

adjective

spiculate

Pronunciation: /-lət/
adjective

spiculation

noun

Origin:

late 18th century: from modern Latin spicula, spiculum, diminutives of spica 'ear of grain'