Centrarchidae

plural noun

Cen·​trar·​chi·​dae

-kəˌdē

: a family of North American carnivorous percoid freshwater fishes containing the sunfishes, crappies, black basses, and others valuable as food and game

centrarchoid

-ˌkȯid

adjective or noun

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from centrarchus, type genus (from Greek kentron sharp point + archos rectum) + -idae

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