microvillus
/ˌmaɪkroʊˈvɪləs/
noun
- A single tiny, finger-like projection on the surface of a cell, used to increase surface area for absorption or secretion.
- The microvillus plays a key role in nutrient uptake in the digestive tract.
- A single microvillus can be damaged by certain bacterial infections.
- Each microvillus is too small to see without a powerful microscope.