alicorn

noun

al·​i·​corn ˈa-lə-ˌkȯrn 

plural alicorns

: the horn of a unicorn

Many alicorns circulated during this period, often passing as prestige gifts from one royal house to another.

—Chris Lavers, The Natural History of Unicorns, 2009

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Italian alicorno, alicorne "unicorn," probably from a dissimilated variant of unicorno, borrowed from Late Latin ūnicornis unicorn

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

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