1. a scar or mark on a seed where it was attached to the seed pod
Usage: botany; also spelled hilum
2. a depression or opening in an organ where blood vessels and nerves enter
Usage: anatomy; also spelled hilum

Examples

• The hilus of the bean is the small scar visible on its surface.
• In anatomy, the renal hilus is where the kidney's blood vessels connect.
• Botanists examine the hilus to identify seed characteristics.
• The lung hilus contains the bronchi and pulmonary vessels.
• Each legume seed displays a distinct hilus marking.