ETYM New Lat., from Greek, offshoot, process of a bone growing; apo from + phyein to grow.
1. (Anatomy) A natural outgrowth or projection on an organ or part such as the process of a vertebra.
2. (Botany) A natural swelling or enlargement: at the base of the stalk or seta in certain mosses or on the cone scale of certain conifers.
3. Offshoot; projecting part, especially of bone.