1. a small needle-like structure or spine
Usage: biology; anatomy
2. a dart or javelin used as a weapon
Usage: historical; archaic

Examples

• The sea urchin’s spiculum provided protection from predators.
• Each spiculum on the sponge’s surface was microscopic in size.
• The biologist examined the spiculum under high magnification.
• Ancient warriors carried a spiculum into battle.
• The spiculum was crafted from sharpened wood.
• Marine organisms often develop spiculum structures for defense.