# apical

**Pronunciation:** /ˈeɪ.pɪ.kəl/ · AY-pi-kul

**Part of speech:** adjective

## Meaning

Located at or forming the tip, peak, or apex of a structure.

## Examples

- The apical leaves of the tree were the first to change color in the autumn.
- Dentists often examine the apical region of a tooth root to check for signs of infection.
- The apical dominance of the main shoot prevents side branches from growing too quickly.

## Synonyms

- top — The most common and general word for the highest part.
- tip — Refers to the pointed or extreme end of something.
- peak — Often used for mountains or the highest point of a process.
- terminal — Used in technical contexts to mean situated at the end.

## Antonyms

- basal — The direct scientific opposite, referring to the base or bottom.

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