vestige /ves·tige/ (ves´tij) the remnant of a structure that functioned in a previous stage of species or individual development.vestig´ial
vestige
vestige (vesˑ·tij),
ves·tige (v s t j)n. A rudimentary or degenerate, usually nonfunctioning structure that is the remnant of an organ or part that was fully developed or functioning in a preceding generation or an earlier stage of development. |
vestige
[ves′tij]
Etymology: L, vestigium, trace
an imperfectly developed, relatively useless organ or other structure of the body that had a vital function at an earlier stage of life or in a more primitive form of life. The vermiform appendix is a vestigial organ. vestigial, adj.
vestige (vesˑ·tij),
n an organ that has developed imperfectly and is largely considered nonfunctional. It may have provided a significant function in a more primordial type of life or during an earlier life stage. The vermiform appendix in humans is an example of a vestige.
vestige
the remnant of a structure that functioned in a previous stage of species or individual development.
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