staphyl-

combining form

variants or staphylo-
1
a
: bunch of grapes
Staphylococcus
b
: staphyloma
staphylotomy
2
a
: uvula
staphylectomy
b
: palate
staphylion
3
: staphylococcic
staphylocoagulase
staphylodermatitis

Word History

Etymology

Middle French staphyl-, from Latin staphyl-, staphylo-, from Greek, bunch of grapes, uvula, from staphylē bunch of grapes swollen uvula, uvula; akin to Greek stemphylon olive pulp

The Ultimate Dicitonary 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 staphyl-

Cite this Entry

“Staphyl-.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/staphyl-. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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