barbellate

adjective

bar·​bel·​late
ˈbärbəˌlāt,
(ˈ)bär¦belə̇t
biology
: having short stiff hooked bristles or hairs

Word History

Etymology

New Latin barbella short stiff hair (diminutive of Latin barbula, diminutive of barba beard + English -ate

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 barbellate

Cite this Entry

“Barbellate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barbellate. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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