follicle
FOL-ih-kuhl
/ˈfɒlɪkəl/
A small secretory cavity, sac, or gland, especially one in the skin from which a hair grows.
Refers to the entire anatomical structure beneath the skin surface that produces and anchors the hair shaft.
The story behind the word. In Latin, 'folliculus' meant 'little bag' or 'sack', being the diminutive form of 'follis' (a leather bag or bellows). Anatomists in the 17th century adopted this term to describe the tiny, bag-like structures in the skin that cradle hair roots.
Word relationships
- pore: A pore is a general opening on the skin surface, whereas a follicle is the specific deep sac-like structure that houses and grows a hair.
Commonly confused with
- shaft: The shaft is the visible, dead part of the hair above the skin, while the follicle is the living, underground structure that produces it.
Word family
- follicular (adjective): Pertaining to or affecting follicles.
- folliculitis (noun): Inflammation of one or more hair follicles.
Collocations
- hair follicle
- follicle stimulation
- damaged follicle
Example sentences
- "Each hair follicle on the human body operates independently, transitioning through phases of growth, regression, and rest." An article explaining hair growth cycles.
- "When bacteria get trapped inside a hair follicle, it can lead to painful inflammation known as folliculitis." A dermatologist explaining acne and skin irritation.
Memory hook
Think of a 'FOLLICLE' as a tiny 'FOLDER' or 'pocket' in your skin that holds a single hair. Follicle is the pocket for the hair.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'follicular' (the adjective form) or use when referring to the hair shaft itself.
Fun facts
- Humans are born with all the hair follicles they will ever have—approximately 5 million of them—and no new follicles are created during a person's life.
Related words
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