noun
flagellation
Movement using whiplike cellular appendages.
The single-celled organism relies on flagellation to swim through water.
Etymology
The Latin word names a small whip. Cellular flagellation applies the whipping image to the motion generated by long, flexible appendages.
More examples
- Some bacteria move toward nutrients by flagellation.
- Under the microscope, we watch flagellation propel the cells.
- Damage to the cell's whiplike tail interferes with flagellation.
Forms
flagellation
flagellum noun — A whiplike cell appendage used for movement.
Similar words
- locomotion
- Covers movement from place to place by any mechanism.
- motility
- Describes the ability to move, not a particular mechanism.