cilium Definition
a minute hairlike organelle, identical in structure to a flagellum, that is present on the surface of certain cells, either causing movement of the cell or movement of the surrounding fluid.
Using cilium: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cilium" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Cilia help move mucus out of the lungs.
Example
The cilia on the surface of the cells beat in unison.
Example
The cilia lining the fallopian tubes help move the egg towards the uterus.
cilium Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with cilium
Example
Primary cilia are involved in sensing and signaling.
Example
Motile cilia are found in the respiratory tract and help move mucus.
9+2 cilium
a cilium with a characteristic arrangement of microtubules consisting of nine pairs of microtubules surrounding a central pair
Example
The 9+2 cilium is found in many motile cilia and flagella.
Origins of cilium
from Latin 'cilium', meaning 'eyelid'
Summary: cilium in Brief
'Cilium' [ˈsɪliəm] refers to a tiny hair-like organelle present on the surface of certain cells. It can cause movement of the cell or movement of the surrounding fluid. Examples include the cilia lining the respiratory tract that help move mucus. Cilia can be motile or non-motile, and may have different arrangements of microtubules.
