Balanoglossus

noun

Bal·​a·​no·​glos·​sus
-səs
: a genus of marine burrowing wormlike animals that because of certain vertebratelike characters are not usually classed as chordates and made with certain closely related forms (such as Dolichoglossus) to constitute an order (Enteropneusta) of the Hemichorda

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from balan- + -glossus (from Greek glōssa tongue)

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Balanoglossus was in 1873

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 Balanoglossus

Cite this Entry

“Balanoglossus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Balanoglossus. Accessed 16 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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