atoke

noun

ˈaˌtōk,
ˈā-
plural -s
: the anterior sexless part of certain polychaete worms from which grows the sexual portion compare epitoke
atokous adjective
or less commonly atocous
ˈatəkəs
or atokal
-kəl

Word History

Etymology

Greek atokos without offspring, from a- a- entry 2 + tokos childbirth, offspring; akin to Greek teknon child

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 atoke

Cite this Entry

“Atoke.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atoke. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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