1. a small rounded projection on a part or organ of the body
Usage: anatomy; biology
2. one of the small bumps on the tongue that contain taste buds
Usage: anatomy
3. a small projection at the base of a hair or feather
Usage: anatomy; biology

Examples

• The doctor examined the papilla at the base of each hair follicle.
• Taste papillae on the tongue help us detect different flavors.
• The dermal papilla supplies nutrients to the growing hair.
• Each papilla contains nerve endings that respond to touch.
• The fungiform papillae are located on the tip of the tongue.
• Damage to the papilla can affect hair growth.
• The papillae give the tongue its rough texture.