ambystoma

noun

am·​bys·​to·​ma

amˈbistəmə

1

capitalized : a genus (the type of the family Ambystomidae) of common salamanders confined to America and characterized by amphicoelous vertebrae, short prevomers, and internal fertilization

2

plural -s : a salamander of the genus Ambystoma see axolotl

ambystomid

-mə̇d

-ˌmid

adjective or noun

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, irregular from ambly- + -stoma

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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