anthocaulus

noun

an·​tho·​cau·​lus

plural anthocauli

-ˌlī

: the stalklike basal portion of the zooid in certain solitary corals from which the oral portion is pinched off to form a new zooid

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from anth- entry 1 + Greek kaulos stem

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