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rachis

noun
ra·​chis | \ ˈrā-kəs How to pronounce rachis (audio) , ˈra- How to pronounce rachis (audio) \
plural rachises also rachides\ ˈra-​kə-​ˌdēz How to pronounce rachides (audio) , ˈrā-​ \

Definition of rachis

1 : an axial structure: such as
a(1) : the elongated axis of an inflorescence
(2) : an extension of the petiole of a compound leaf that bears the leaflets
b : the distal part of the shaft of a feather that bears the web
2 : spinal column

Examples of rachis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 According to Persons, flight feathers found on bird wings contain a hollow center called the rachis, from which the barbs protrude. — Daisy Hernandez, Popular Mechanics, "The Sexiest Dinosaurs Learned How to Fly First," 5 Aug. 2019

First Known Use of rachis

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for rachis

New Latin rachid-, rachis, from Greek rhachis; akin to Greek rhachos thorn, Lithuanian ražas dry twig, tine

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