Cladistia

plural noun

Cla·​dis·​tia

kləˈdistēə

: an order of Teleostomi comprising primitive bony freshwater African fishes that have scales, head skeleton, and pectoral arch which resemble those of the extinct Archistia and that include the bichir and the reedfish compare polypterus

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from clad- + -istia (from Greek histia, plural of histion web, cloth, sail, from histanai to make stand, stand)

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