What does specula mean?
Specula is the plural of speculum, an instrument used to inspect or dilate a body cavity. Such instruments are most commonly associated with medical examinations involving the vagina or rectum, although specula can also refer to devices used in other forms of exploration. The word is chiefly found in clinical and surgical contexts and is less common in everyday speech. Its unusual plural ending reflects the history of speculum, which entered English from Latin. In Latin, speculum originally meant a mirror or reflecting instrument and was associated with the verb specere, meaning “to look.” From this root also come related English words such as speculate, speculation, and specular. Although “speculums” is accepted as an alternative plural, the form “specula” is traditional and especially characteristic of professional medical usage.
plural nounThe plural of speculum; specula are instruments used to examine or dilate a body cavity, especially the vagina or rectum.
- The plural form of speculum, referring to instruments used to examine or dilate a body cavity, especially in medical or surgical procedures.
"After the examination, the metal specula were cleaned and returned to their trays."
"The clinician selected the appropriate specula before beginning the pelvic examination."
"Several sterile specula were arranged on the instrument trolley."
The traditional plural of speculum; speculums is also accepted.
"The medical staff arranged the specula beside the examination table."
Specula began as mirrors: the word descends from the Latin speculum, an object used for looking.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does specula come from?
Specula is the Latin plural of speculum, meaning “mirror” or “observing instrument.” Latin speculum developed from specere, “to look at” or “to observe,” a root also underlying English words such as speculate and inspection. The English medical sense developed through the use of specula as instruments for examining body cavities.
Related word forms
How specula is actually used
Specula is the traditional plural of speculum; speculums is also accepted. The plural is normally used when discussing multiple instruments.