flagellate
UK: ˈflædʒəleɪt | US: ˈflædʒəˌleɪt
vt. to whip or flog, especially as a form of punishment or discipline
adj. (biology) having whip-like appendages, such as flagella
n. (biology) a protozoan or cell bearing flagella
The word traces back to Latin flagellum, a diminutive of flagrum ("whip"), reflecting its violent physical action. In biology, it evolved metaphorically to describe whip-like structures (flagella) used for locomotion. The verb form emerged in the 17th century, retaining the original punitive sense while expanding to scientific contexts.
Some religious sects historically flagellate themselves as penance.
The sperm cell uses its flagellate tail to swim toward the egg.
Microscopic flagellates propel themselves through water with rapid movements.
The cruel master would flagellate disobedient servants.
Euglena is a well-known flagellate found in freshwater ecosystems.