The verb "psilate" refers to the action of becoming or making something smooth or free from roughness, often used in botanical contexts to describe the state of certain plants or features. Its frequency of use is relatively low, primarily appearing in specialized fields such as botany or mycology. It is more common in written contexts than in oral speech due to its specialized nature.
The botanist noted that the leaves were psilate, indicating a smooth texture that was unusual for the species.
Translation: El botánico observó que las hojas eran psilatas, lo que indica una textura suave que era inusual para la especie.
To identify the fungi correctly, experts look for psilate characteristics in their microscopic features.
Translation: Para identificar correctamente los hongos, los expertos buscan características psilatas en sus características microscópicas.
The smooth surface of the psilate rock made it an ideal candidate for sculpting.
Translation: La superficie lisa de la roca psilata la convirtió en un candidato ideal para esculpir.
Though "psilate" is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions, it can be contextualized in discussions about botanical or biological terms. Here are some broader idiomatic expressions using adjectives that might be synonymous or contextually related:
To leave no stone unturned
In botanical research, scientists often leave no stone unturned to find psilate specimens for their studies.
Translation: En la investigación botánica, los científicos a menudo no dejan piedra sin remover para encontrar ejemplares psilatos para sus estudios.
Nip it in the bud
If we notice any psilate growth on the plants, we should nip it in the bud before it spreads.
Translation: Si notamos algún crecimiento psilato en las plantas, deberíamos cortarlo de raíz antes de que se propague.
A rough diamond
Despite its rough appearance, the psilate surface held hidden beauty akin to a rough diamond.
Translation: A pesar de su apariencia áspera, la superficie psilata albergaba una belleza oculta similar a un diamante en bruto.
The term "psilate" is derived from the Greek word psilos, meaning "bare" or "smooth". Its use in the context of smooth surfaces can trace back to its botanical applications where certain plant features are described.