anchialine

adjective

an·​chia·​line ˈaŋ-kē-ə-ˌlīn 

-lən

: having an underground connection to a larger tidal body (such as the sea) but no surface connection

anchialine pools

Located on an island in The Abacos, the fauna in this seawater-flooded anchialine cave is among the richest and most diverse in the world.

—Seed, June/July 2006

Word History

Etymology

Greek anchíalos "near the sea, sea-girt" (from anchí "near" + -alos, derivative of háls "sea") + -ine entry 1

First Known Use

1984, 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