Caryophanon

noun

Car·​y·​oph·​a·​non
ˌkarēˈäfəˌnän
: a genus (coextensive with the family Caryophanaceae) of large filamentous or bacillary bacteria of oral mucous membranes and the alimentary tract of various mammals that are closely related to the chlamydobacteria though usually placed in a separate order and are distinguished by well-defined nuclei comparable to isolated chromosomes, peritrichous or no flagella, and absence of spores

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from cary- + Greek phanon, neuter of phanos bright, from phaos light

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 Caryophanon

Cite this Entry

“Caryophanon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Caryophanon. 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!