1. small, nipple-like projections on a surface, especially on the tongue or skin
Usage: anatomy; plural of papilla

Examples

• The taste buds are located on the papillae of the tongue.
• Fungiform papillae contain most of our taste receptors.
• The doctor examined the papillae on the patient’s tongue.
• Inflamed papillae can make the tongue appear red and bumpy.
• The papillae on her skin were barely visible to the naked eye.
• Different types of papillae are responsible for detecting different tastes.