Orycteropus

noun

Oryc·​ter·​o·​pus
əˌrikˈterəpəs,
ˌōrˌi-
: a genus (coextensive with the family Orycteropodidae and sole recent representative of the order Tubulidentata) that comprises the aardvarks

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek oryktēr miner (from oryssein, orychein to dig) + New Latin -pus

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 Orycteropus

Cite this Entry

“Orycteropus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Orycteropus. 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!