What does striated mean?
Striated describes a surface or structure marked by narrow, usually parallel lines, grooves, or bands. The word is especially useful in scientific and descriptive contexts: a mineral, shell, cliff, or piece of wood may have a striated surface, while skeletal muscle is described as striated because of the organized pattern of its fibers. 'Striated' can also suggest the effect of repeated movement or erosion, as when water or wind has cut regular grooves into rock. In general use, it conveys texture and regularity more precisely than simply saying 'striped.' Though related to the familiar visual pattern of stripes, it is normally encountered in formal, technical, or carefully descriptive writing rather than casual conversation.
Marked with narrow parallel lines, grooves, or bands.
"The specimen had a smooth, finely striated outer shell."
Common in scientific, geological, zoological, and anatomical descriptions.
To mark with parallel lines or grooves; to engrave or form fine lines in something.
"The tool striated the metal as the blade passed across its surface."
Rare and chiefly used in technical or descriptive writing.
A striated surface records the passage of time in lines, turning geology and anatomy into a visible pattern of movement.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does striated come from?
The word comes through Latin from stria, meaning a groove or channel. Latin striatus, meaning marked with grooves, produced the English adjective 'striate,' from which 'striated' was formed. The same root appears in words such as 'striation' and in anatomical terminology including 'striatum.'
Related word forms
How striated is actually used
In scientific and descriptive writing, 'striated' is especially common for surfaces, minerals, shells, and anatomical tissues. It is more formal and technical than the everyday word 'striped.'