Spio

noun

ˈspī(ˌ)ō

: a widely distributed genus (the type of the family Spionidae) of small burrowing marine polychaete worms without tentacles or palps but with enlarged dorsal cirri acting as gills

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Spion-, Spio, perhaps from Latin Spio, one of the Nereids, from Greek Speiō

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