Encyrtidae

plural noun

En·​cyr·​ti·​dae

ə̇nˈsərtəˌdē,

en-

: a large cosmopolitan family of small chalcid wasps parasitic in the eggs or later stages of many insects

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Encyrtus, type genus (from Greek enkyrtos curved, crooked, from en in + kyrtos convex, bulging) + -idae; akin to Latin curvus curved

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