rostellum
noun
ros·tel·lum
rä-ˈste-ləm 
plural rostella
rä-ˈste-lə
: a small process resembling a beak : a diminutive rostrum: such as
a
: an extension of the stigma of an orchid flower
b
: an anterior prolongation of the head of a tapeworm bearing hooks
Examples of rostellum in a Sentence
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One of the traits researchers are keenest to explore is one that would eliminate a flap inside the vanilla flowers called the rostellum.
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Alex Fox, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Dec. 2020
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Alex Fox, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Dec. 2020
Cite this Entry
“Rostellum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rostellum. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
rostellum
noun
ros·tel·lum
rä-ˈstel-əm
: an anterior prolongation of the head of a tapeworm often bearing hooks
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