Heterococcales

plural noun

Het·​ero·​coc·​ca·​les

ˈhetə(ˌ)rōˌkäˈkā(ˌ)lēz

: an order of yellow-green algae including all members of the class Xanthophyceae having the immobile vegetative cells surrounded by a cell wall and incapable of returning to the motile state directly

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Heterococcus, genus of algae (from heter- + -coccus) + -ales

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