cysticercus

noun

cys·​ti·​cer·​cus ˌsi-stə-ˈsər-kəs 

plural cysticerci ˌsi-stə-ˈsər-ˌsī 

-ˌkī

: a tapeworm larva that consists of a fluid-filled sac containing an invaginated scolex and is situated in the tissues of an intermediate host

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from cyst- + Greek kerkos tail

First Known Use

circa 1871, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

cysticercus

noun

cys·​ti·​cer·​cus -ˈsər-kəs 

plural cysticerci -ˈsər-ˌsī, -ˌkī 

: a tapeworm larva that consists of a fluid-filled sac containing an invaginated scolex, is situated in the tissues of an intermediate host, and is capable of developing into an adult tapeworm when eaten by a suitable definitive host

called also bladder worm, measle

cysticercal

-ˈsər-kəl 

adjective