puncti

Puncti is a Latin noun-form commonly encountered in scholarly texts to denote small points, dots, or punctures. In classical and medieval usage, puncti appears as a plural form in phrases describing tiny markings or openings on surfaces, instruments, or anatomical structures. Because it is a Latin form, puncti is most often seen in historical descriptions, taxonomic keys, or captions that preserve Latin phrasing.

In modern scientific writing, the more typical plural for the corresponding Latin noun punctum is puncta, especially when English authors intend a neuter plural in descriptive contexts. As a result, puncti tends to occur primarily in historical literature, in Latin-aligned nomenclature, or in quotations where authors retain the original Latin grammar. When readers encounter puncti in contemporary texts, it is usually within a translated or quoted passage rather than as a ongoing, independent English term.

In practice, puncti can be associated with features described as punctate or punctiform—dot-like markings or small impressions on a surface. The term helps convey the idea of discrete, point-like elements, but in current usage, puncta and related adjectives are more common in English-language descriptions of morphology, anatomy, botany, and microscopy.

See also: punctum, puncta, punctate.