areoles

/ˈɛri.oʊlz/
noun
  1. Plural of areole; small, specialized areas on cacti or other plants.
    • Each of the areoles on the plant produced a cluster of spines.
    • Areoles are important for identifying different types of cacti.
    • The cactus had many areoles arranged in rows along its ribs.
  2. Plural of areole; small ring-shaped areas on the body or on leaves.
    • The doctor noted the areoles around the patient's nipples were symmetrical.
    • The leaves showed tiny areoles where the fungus had spread.
    • In some animals, the areoles on the skin help with camouflage.
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