lanceolate

adjective

lan·​ce·​o·​late ˈlan(t)-sē-ə-ˌlāt How to pronounce lanceolate (audio)
: shaped like a lance head
specifically : tapering to a point at the apex and sometimes at the base
lanceolate leaves
lanceolate prisms
see leaf illustration

Examples of lanceolate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The first leaves will be lanceolate or spear-shaped, without much interest. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 17 Apr. 2025 Genetically identical neurons that form Meissner corpuscles for picking up vibrations in glabrous skin, for example, also form lanceolate endings for detecting hair movement in hairy skin. Ariel Bleicher, Quanta Magazine, 16 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin lanceolatus, from Latin lanceola, diminutive of lancea

First Known Use

circa 1760, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lanceolate was circa 1760

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Cite this Entry

“Lanceolate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lanceolate. Accessed 26 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

lanceolate

adjective
lan·​ce·​o·​late ˈlan(t)-sē-ə-ˌlāt How to pronounce lanceolate (audio)
: shaped like the head of a lance or spear
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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