apophysis

Definition

A natural outgrowth, swelling or enlargement, usually of an organism; a protuberance on a bone.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ἀπόφυσις (apóphusis, “offshoot”), from ἀπό (apó) + φύω (phúō, “to bring forth”), from Proto-Indo-European *bʰuH- (“to exist, to grow”). Equivalent to apo- + -physis.

Example Sentences

• "Every bone in the real duck had its representative in the automaton, and its wings were anatomically exact. Every cavity, apophysis, and curvature was imitated, and each bone executed its proper movements."
• "In the male each palpal tibia shows a long narrow apophysis on the outerside."
• "Minor palingenetic magmas probably were generated at this time and intruded the mantling rocks in the form of small sills and apophyses; …"