Biology
Apical
From Latin 'apex' meaning peak, tip, or summit
Relating to or situated at the apex or tip. In biology, apical refers to the growing point or tip of a structure—the apical meristem is where new growth occurs in plants.
Biological Context
The apical meristem at shoot and root tips is where cell division occurs, driving plant growth. Apical regions are metabolically active and often produce hormones that influence the rest of the organism. In animals, apical surfaces of cells face outward (toward a lumen or external environment).
Business Application
In organizations, 'apical' positions are leadership roles at the top of hierarchies. Apical growth strategies concentrate resources at specific leading edges rather than diffusing effort throughout the organization.