vorticella

[ vawr-tuh-sel-uh ]

/ ˌvɔr təˈsɛl ə /

any ciliated protozoan of the genus Vorticella, having a transparent, bell-shaped body with a retractile stalk.

Origin of vorticella

From New Latin, dating back to 1780–90; see origin at vortex, -ella

"On the whole—yes," said Vorticella, in a tone of concession.

Impressions of Theophrastus Such |George Eliot
"You are probably surprised to see no notices from the London press," said Vorticella.

Impressions of Theophrastus Such |George Eliot
The cilia exist at the anterior end, and extend down a lateral fissure as in Vorticella.

An Elementary Text-book of the Microscope |John William Griffith
Among the remainder of my tiny captives were two beautiful members of the Vorticella family, Epistylis and Carchesium.

Marvels of Pond-life |Henry J. Slack

Elie set to work with ardour and found that the stalk of the Vorticella had no muscular character.

Life of Elie Metchnikoff, 1845-1916 |Olga Metchnikoff

vorticella

/ (ˌvɔːtɪˈsɛlə) /

any protozoan of the genus Vorticella, consisting of a goblet-shaped ciliated cell attached to the substratum by a long contractile stalk

C18: from New Latin, literally: a little eddy, from vortex