Erythrinidae

plural noun

Er·​y·​thrin·​i·​dae

ˌerəˈthrinəˌdē

: a family of carnivorous South American river fishes that resemble the pikes but are related to and often included in the family Characidae

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Erythrinus, type genus (from Greek erythrinos, a kind of fish, from erythr- + -inos -ine) + -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