Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Definition of Fungiform papilla

Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026

Fungiform papilla: The fungiform papillae are broad flat structures that house taste buds in the central portion of the dorsum (back) of the tongue.

These papillae were thought to resemble a fungus: a little mushroom. Fungiform means mushroom-shaped. From fungi-, fungus + forma, shape.