Papilla
(noun)
A small, nipple-like structure or protuberance, especially one on the skin or a mucous membrane.
Origin:
The word 'papilla' is derived from the latin word 'papilla' meaning 'nipple', which was used in reference to the small rounded protuberances. the word was adopted in the late 17th century in anatomy and medicine to describe a small, nipple-like structure.
Examples:
- The taste buds are located on the papillae of the tongue.
- The papillae of the skin contain small hair follicles and sweat glands.
- The papilla of the iris regulates the amount of light entering the eye.
- The papillae on the tongue are essential for our sense of taste.
- The enlargement of the papillae on the sole of the foot can cause plantar warts.