Columbella

noun

Col·​um·​bel·​la

ˌkäləmˈbelə

: a genus (the type of the family Columbellidae) of small marine gastropods having a thick fusiform shell and being abundant in tropical seas

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin columba dove + New Latin -ella; from the color of the shell

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