lobes
|lobe|
🇺🇸
/loʊb/
🇬🇧
/ləʊb/
(lobe)
rounded projection
Etymology
'lobe' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'lobos', where 'lobos' meant 'a rounded projection or an inflated/rounded part'.
'lobe' passed into Latin as 'lobus', entered Old French as 'lobe' or similar forms, and then into Middle English to become the modern English 'lobe'.
Initially it denoted a rounded or swollen projection; over time the word retained this general sense and became specialized in anatomy and botany to mean a subdivision or rounded projection of an organ or leaf.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a rounded projection or distinct subdivision of an organ or other structure (e.g., parts of the brain, lungs, liver, or the external ear).
The brain's frontal and temporal lobes perform different functions; injuries to different lobes cause different deficits.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a projecting part or rounded division of a leaf, petal, or other botanical structure (a leaf with lobes is described as 'lobed').
Oak leaves typically have deep lobes that help identify the species.
Synonyms
Noun 3
a rounded projecting part of a larger formation (used in geology or general description), e.g., a glacier or landmass that projects as a lobe.
The glacier advanced in broad lobes during the cold period.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/29 02:32