serrated

UK: səˈreɪtɪd | US: ˈsɛreɪtɪd

Definition

  1. adj. having a notched or saw-like edge

  2. adj. (botany/zootomy) with tooth-like projections

Structure
serr <tooth, saw>ated <adjective suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin serratus (toothed), from serra (saw). The morpheme serr- preserves the original Latin root meaning "saw," while -ated is an English adjectival suffix indicating possession of a quality. The word vividly evokes the jagged appearance of saw blades or natural structures like leaves and shark teeth.

Examples

  1. The knife had a serrated edge for cutting bread.

  2. Maple leaves are easily identified by their serrated margins.

  3. Sharks use their serrated teeth to tear through prey.

  4. The carpenter selected a serrated saw for finer woodwork.

  5. Botanists classify plants partly by their serrated or smooth leaf edges.