vermiculation
NounSynonyms:
peristalsis
Open English WordNet
Noun (2)
- the process of wavelike muscle contractions of the alimentary tract that moves food alongSynonyms: peristalsisType of bodily process, body process
- a decoration consisting of wormlike carvingsType of carving, embellishment
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Webster's Dictionary (1913)
Ver·mic′u·la′tion noun
Origin: L. vermiculatio a being worm-eaten.
1. The act or operation of moving in the manner of a worm; continuation of motion from one part to another; as, the vermiculation, or peristaltic motion, of the intestines.
2. The act of vermiculating, or forming or inlaying so as to resemble the motion, track, or work of a worm.
3. Penetration by worms; the state of being wormeaten.
4. Zoology A very fine wavy crosswise color marking, or a patch of such markings, as on the feathers of birds.
Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54