Acicular

Describing something that is needle-shaped, slender, and pointed, resembling a needle. This term is commonly used in geology, mineralogy, and botany to characterize the form of crystals, leaves, or other elongated structures. The acicular form implies a high length-to-width ratio, where the object is significantly longer than it is wide. acicular structures often radiate outwards from a central point or occur in clusters, visually creating a spiky or bristly appearance. This characteristic can be a key identifier in classifying different types of materials.

Acicular meaning with examples

• The mineral, tourmaline, often presents in acicular crystals, its slender, needle-like structures radiating outwards from the matrix. The gemologists used the acicular structure as a key factor in their classification process to provide the precise grading and appraisal value of the crystal.
• Observing the thin, acicular leaves of the juniper tree under a magnifying glass revealed their distinct needle-like shape. These examples would display similar characteristics across varying examples of this botanical feature.
• The geode contained a cluster of acicular quartz crystals, glittering in the sunlight within the hollow. These crystal shapes demonstrated their ability to create different visual effects when under light.
• When examining a microscopic sample of asbestos, scientists noted its dangerous acicular fibres, which could easily become airborne. Their needle-like structure contributed to its harmful health implications.