NODULE

[nod.ule] n [ME, fr. L nodulus, dim. of nodus] (15c): a small mass of rounded or irregular shape: as a: a small rounded lump of a mineral or mineral aggregate b: a swelling on a leguminous root that contains symbiotic bacteria c: a small abnormal knobby bodily protuberance (as a tumorous growth or a calcification near an arthritic joint)