Why use the term "fluted" in regard to an object, when the object doesn't look like a flute?

looney_tunes

Flute (as a noun) has a number of meanings, all related to a long slender cylindrical shape. Fluted as an adjective means having flutes. 1. (Music) a. A high-pitched woodwind instrument consisting of a slender tube closed at one end with keys and finger holes on the side and an opening near the closed end across which the breath is blown. Also called transverse flute. b. Any of various similar reedless woodwind instruments, such as the recorder. c. An organ stop whose flue pipe produces a flutelike tone. 2. a. (Architecture) A long, usually rounded groove incised as a decorative motif on the shaft of a column, for example. b. A similar groove or furrow, as in a pleated ruffle of cloth or on a piece of furniture. 3. A tall narrow wineglass, often used for champagne. http://www.thefreedictionary.com/fluted Jan 14 10, 1:39 AM