amphioxea

noun

am·​phi·​ox·​ea
ˌamfēˈäksēə,
-ē(ˌ)äkˈsēə
plural -s
: a slightly curved needlelike sponge spicule

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from amphi- + oxea

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amphioxea was in 1899

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 amphioxea

Cite this Entry

“Amphioxea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amphioxea. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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