Mammillary

Relating to or resembling a nipple or breast in shape or form. This adjective is used in anatomy, geology, and other fields to describe rounded, often irregular, protuberances or structures. It can refer to the appearance of specific formations, or to the shape of objects or features. The term often evokes a sense of small, rounded, and repeating features, mirroring the appearance of multiple nipples. Understanding mammillary structures is important in differentiating them from other similar formations.

Mammillary meaning with examples

• The radiologist identified a mammillary calcification within the breast tissue, indicating a potential benign growth that will require periodic monitoring, to check its development. This formation needed to be further examined with a biopsy, which is a method to extract samples from within the breast.
• The geologist studied the mammillary texture of the mineral specimen, noting the small, rounded protrusions on the surface of the rock, which often indicate a specific geological process. Observing these mammillary structures can help determine the cooling of the rock.
• During the surgery, the surgeon observed a mammillary growth on the kidney, the structure of which prompted further investigation into the possibility of a tumor.
• The artist sculpted a series of mammillary forms to give a sense of the undulating landscape which resembled hills. The artist was inspired by the landscapes and created a series of works with the same theme.
• The botanist described the surface of the unusual fruit, noting the mammillary bumps and small, nipple-like projections on its outer skin. This interesting characteristic helped determine this plant's classification.