Helotium

noun

He·​lo·​ti·​um

hə̇ˈlōshēəm,

-ōtē-

: a genus (the type of the family Helotiaceae) comprising fungi that have inoperculate asci arranged in a hymenial layer in a cup-shaped apothecium with a colored rim of elongate thin-walled hyphae

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Late Greek hēlōtos nail-shaped (from Greek hēlos nail) + New Latin -ium

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