ichthyopterygium

noun

ich·​thy·​op·​te·​ryg·​i·​um
-jēəm
plural ichthyopterygia
-jēə
: the vertebrate limb when having the form of a fin whether as a definitive organ or in the course of individual or evolutionary development
especially : any of the paired fins that are the typical limbs of fishes compare chiropterygium

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from ichthy- + Greek pterygion small wing, fin, diminutive of pteryg-, pteryx wing

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 ichthyopterygium

Cite this Entry

“Ichthyopterygium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ichthyopterygium. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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