frustule

noun

frus·​tule ˈfrəs-(ˌ)chül How to pronounce frustule (audio)
-(ˌ)t(y)ül
: the 2-valved siliceous shell of a diatom

Word History

Etymology

French, from Latin frustulum, diminutive of frustum

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of frustule was in 1848

Dictionary Entries Near frustule

Cite this Entry

“Frustule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frustule. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on frustule

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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