Cryptobranchidae

plural noun

Cryp·​to·​bran·​chi·​dae

ˌkriptəˈbraŋkəˌdē

: a family of large aquatic salamanders including the American hellbenders and the Asian giant salamanders, all distinguished by amphicoelous vertebrae, external fertilization, and the absence of eyelids and of lacrimal and septomaxillary bones and with Hynobiidae forming a suborder of Caudata comprising primitive salamanders with relatively generalized skeletons

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Cryptobranchus, type genus + -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