aedeagus

noun

ae·​de·​a·​gus

variants or less commonly aedoeagus

¦ē-dē-¦ā-gəs,

ē-ˈdē-ə-

plural aedeagi also aedoeagi

¦ē-dē-¦ā-ˌgī,

-ˌjī,

ē-ˈdē-ə-

: the intromittent organ of a male insect : phallus

sometimes : the distal part of this structure

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek aidoia genitals + agos leader, from agein to lead

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

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