Meliphagidae

plural noun

Mel·​i·​phag·​i·​dae
ˌmeləˈfajəˌdē
: a family of oscine birds that are almost entirely restricted to the Australian biogeographic region and have the tongue modified for taking nectar and insects from flowers see honeyeater
meliphagidan
¦⸗⸗¦fajədᵊn
adjective or noun

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Meliphaga, type genus (from meli- + -phaga) + -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

Dictionary Entries Near Meliphagidae

Cite this Entry

“Meliphagidae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Meliphagidae. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!