ala
n. countable C2 Proficiency US //ˈæɫə// UK //ɐlˈæ// ala
n. a small, thin flap of skin or tissue that sticks out from a larger body part. You see this word in biology or anatomy.
n. a small, projecting appendage or lobe of soft tissue, typically attached by a narrow base. Technical register; common in anatomical and botanical contexts.
The bat has large ears with a small ala.
The surgeon carefully removed the ala of the nose to correct the breathing passage.
In botanical terms, the ala refers to the wing-like expansion of a seed or fruit that aids in wind dispersal.