Pycnodontidae

plural noun

Pyc·​no·​don·​ti·​dae
-äntəˌdē
: a large family that is segregated in the order Pycnodonti or now more usually included in Cycloganoidei and that includes Mesozoic and Tertiary ganoid fishes having a deep compressed body typically covered with rhomboidal scales, a homocercal tail, and strong blunt crushing teeth

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Pycnodont-, Pycnodus, type genus (from pycn- + -odont-, -odus) + -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 Pycnodontidae

Cite this Entry

“Pycnodontidae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Pycnodontidae. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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