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filament

Definition

A filament is a thin, thread-like structure. It can be found in many different things, including light bulbs, muscles, and plants.

In a light bulb, the filament is the thin wire that glows when electricity passes through it. The filament is made of a material called tungsten, which has a high melting point. This allows the filament to heat up without melting.

In muscles, the filaments are the long, thin strands that make up muscle tissue. The filaments are made of proteins called actin and myosin. When these proteins contract, they pull on each other and cause the muscle to shorten.

In plants, the filaments are the thread-like structures that make up the stem and leaves. The filaments are made of a material called cellulose, which is a type of carbohydrate. Cellulose is strong and flexible, which makes it ideal for supporting the weight of the plant.

How can the word be used?

The light bulb was made with a tungsten filament.

filament

Different forms of the word

Noun: filament, filaments.

Adjective: filamentary, filamentous.

Verb: filamentize, filamentise.

Etymology

The word "filament" is derived from the Latin word filum, which means "thread". The Latin word filum is thought to be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *gwhī-, which also means "thread".

Question

Where can you find a filament?