pole plate

noun

1

: a horizontal timber resting on the tie beams of a roof rather than on the wall and supporting the ends of the rafters compare plate sense 5a(1)

2

[pole entry 4 + plate] : a condensed platelike body developed at each pole of the spindle in various forms of mitosis especially in protozoans

Word History

Etymology

pole entry 1 + plate

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now