Cilium
6 lettersnounrareUpdated June 2026
Definition
A microscopic hair-like projection on the surface of a cell, used for locomotion in free-swimming single-celled organisms or for moving fluids in multicellular ones.
“The cilium beat rhythmically to propel the paramecium through the pond water.”
Pronunciation
Syllables
cil·i·um
Related Words
Synonyms
Word Game Tips
Wordle
Ends in UM, an uncommon Wordle ending, the C-I-L opening is distinctive and rarely guessed early
Scrabble
Worth 10 points, the M closes the word neatly and the double-I pattern can help clear awkward racks
Words Related to Cilium
Words one letter different
Change a single letter of “cilium” to make these 6-letter words — useful for Wordle and crossword clues.
Add a letter to make a longer word
7-letter words you can spell by adding one letter to “cilium”.
Explore Similar Words
Try These Tools
Dictionary References
Look up cilium in an authoritative dictionary for full definitions, pronunciation, and etymology.
Ready to test your word skills?
Download Word Challenge for unlimited word puzzles, a fresh Daily Challenge, and head-to-head multiplayer. Guess the hidden word in six tries or fewer!