rugosity

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the quality or degree of being rough, wrinkled, or ridged

   Researchers measured the rugosity of the reef surface to estimate habitat complexity.

2. 2
   noun

   a wrinkle, ridge, fold, or rough projection on a surface

   Each rugosity on the shell became clearer under magnification.

From rugose + -ity, ultimately from Latin rugositas, 'wrinkled condition,' based on ruga, 'wrinkle.' Scientific fields use the word both for rough features and for a measured degree of surface complexity.

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