/ˌkɔrbɪˈkjʊləm/ KOR-bi-KYOO-luhm

Definitions

1. noun

A small, usually spoon-shaped structure, especially one on a bird, used for carrying food to its beak or to its nest.

“The corbiculum of the sparrow is a remarkable example of evolutionary adaptation.”

2. noun

A structure in the brain that forms part of the limbic system.

“The researchers discovered a damaged corbiculum in the patient’s brain that was affecting their spatial memory.”

3. noun

A small, projecting part of a tool or machine, especially one on a bird, used for holding or carrying something.

“The corbiculum on the bird’s beak was used to grasp the small twig.”