Tectibranchia

plural noun

Tec·​ti·​bran·​chia

: a suborder of Opisthobranchia comprising gastropod mollusks (as bubble shells and sea hares) in which the gill is usually situated on one side of the back and protected by a fold of the mantle compare pteropoda

tectibranchian

¦⸗⸗¦braŋkēən

adjective or noun

tectibranchiate

-ēə̇t

-ēˌāt

adjective or noun

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin tectus covered (from past participle of tegere to cover) + New Latin -i- + -branchia

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