Xyelidae

plural noun

Xy·​el·​i·​dae
zīˈeləˌdē
: a small family of primitive sawflies having larvae that feed on the foliage of trees

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Xyela, type genus (from Greek xyēlē curved knife, from xyein to scratch, scrape) + -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 Xyelidae

Cite this Entry

“Xyelidae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Xyelidae. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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