Bopyridae

plural noun

Bo·​pyr·​i·​dae
-rəˌdē
: a large family of isopod crustaceans that live as parasites on shrimps and other decapods, the large females attaching themselves to their host by hooked legs, often causing parasitic castration of the host, and themselves becoming extremely degenerated while the minute males live on or near the females and in large measure retain their isopod characters

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Bopyrus, type genus (probably from a proper name Bopyrus) + -idae

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near Bopyridae

Cite this Entry

“Bopyridae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Bopyridae. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!