What does pilose mean?
Pilose refers to the presence of fine hairs on the skin or on the surface of plants. This term is often used in botanical or zoological contexts to describe the texture of certain organisms. The pilose hairs are usually soft and fine, and are often found on the stems or leaves of plants. In animals, pilose refers to the soft, fine hairs that cover the skin. This term is somewhat formal or technical, and may not be commonly used in everyday conversation. However, it is a useful term for describing the texture of certain organisms, and is often used in scientific or technical contexts.
adjectiveHaving or covered with fine hairs; pilose hairs are usually soft and fine, and are often found on the skin or on the surface of plants.
- Having or covered with fine hairs
"The pilose stems of the succulent plant were a distinctive feature of its appearance."
"The pilose stems of the succulent plant were a distinctive feature of its appearance."
"The soft, pilose texture of the rabbit's fur made it a pleasure to pet."
The plural form piloses is used to describe multiple organisms or plants that have fine hairs.
"The piloses stems of the succulent plant were a distinctive feature of its appearance."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of pilose
The word pilose comes from the Latin pilosus, which means 'hairy' or 'covered with hair'. This term is derived from the Latin word pilus, which means 'hair'. The use of pilose to describe the texture of plants or animals dates back to the 17th century, when it was first used in botanical and zoological contexts.
Usage notes
Pilose is often used to describe the texture of plants or animals, but it can also be used to describe the appearance of fine hairs on the skin. It is a somewhat formal or technical term, and may not be commonly used in everyday conversation.