spondylium

noun

spon·​dyl·​i·​um

spänˈdilēəm

plural spondylia

-ēə

: a curved median plate for muscle attachment in the posterior part of one or both valves of a brachiopod

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek spondylion, from spondylos muscle of a bivalve

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