gelidium

noun

ge·​lid·​i·​um
jəˈlidēəm
1
capitalized : a genus of red algae (family Gelidiaceae) having cartilaginous terete or compressed much-branched fronds and cystocarps immersed in swollen branchlets and being important sources of agar see gelidiales
2
plural -s : any alga of the genus Gelidium

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin gelidus (influenced in meaning by Latin gelare to freeze, congeal) + New Latin -ium; from the fact that the plants are boiled down to make a jelly

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 gelidium

Cite this Entry

“Gelidium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gelidium. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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