# Scala

/ˈskɑɫə/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scala
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a small, thin plate that covers the skin of certain animals, like fish or snakes. In anatomy, it can also mean a thin piece of bone or tissue that looks like a scale.

For teachers: a thin, plate-like structure or flake, such as those forming the outer covering of fish and reptiles. In a medical or anatomical context, it refers to a thin lamina of bone or a squame of epidermis.

## Examples

- The doctor examined the small scala on the patient's skin.
- Under the microscope, the researcher identified a tiny scala within the inner ear's bony structure.
- The anatomical specimen clearly displayed the delicate scala vestibuli, demonstrating the intricate layering required for the transmission of sound vibrations within the cochlear duct.

## Usage notes

- Often used in technical Latinate plurals ('scalae') in formal medical texts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.