diastem

noun

di·​a·​stem
ˈdīəˌstem
plural -s
1
: an interval in ancient Greek music
2
3
: a minor interruption in sedimentation with little or no erosion before deposition is resumed compare disconformity, unconformity
diastemic
¦dīə¦stemik
adjective

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin diastema, from Greek diastēma interval, from diistanai to separate

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near diastem

Cite this Entry

“Diastem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diastem. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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