pec·ten (p k t n)n. pl. pec·tens or pec·ti·nes (-t -n z ) 1. A body structure or organ resembling a comb, as the ridged part of the eyelid of reptiles and birds. 2. A scallop of the genus Pecten. [Latin pecten, pectin-, comb.] |
pecten [ˈpɛktɪn]
n pl -tens, -tines [-tɪˌniːz]
1. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Zoology) a comblike structure in the eye of birds and reptiles, consisting of a network of blood vessels projecting inwards from the retina, which it is thought to supply with oxygen
2. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Anatomy) any other comblike part or organ
3. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Animals) any scallop of the genus Pecten, which swim by expelling water from their shell valves in a series of snapping motions
[from Latin: a comb, from pectere, related to Greek pekein to comb]
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