Cobitidae

plural noun

Co·​bit·​i·​dae

kəˈbitəˌdē

: a family of slender Old World cyprinoid fishes having long barbels at the mouth and living at the bottom of flowing waters where they feed on small invertebrates

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Cobitis, type genus (from Greek kōbitis like the gudgeon, from kōbios gudgeon) + -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