metapterygium

noun

me·​tap·​ter·​yg·​i·​um
mə̇¦taptə¦rijēəm
plural metapterygia
-jēə
: the posterior of the three principal basal cartilages in the pectoral fins of some fishes (as sharks and rays) compare basipterygium

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from meta- + Greek pterygion fin, literally, small wing

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Dictionary Entries Near metapterygium

Cite this Entry

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

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