Acalepha

plural noun

Ac·​a·​le·​pha

ˌakəˈlēfə

in old classifications

: a class or other group of coelenterates including the jellyfishes, hydroids, and related forms and sometimes the ctenophores

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, alteration of Acalephae

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined above

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!