hemimetabolism

noun

hemi·​metabolism
variants or less commonly hemimetabole or hemimetaboly
"+
: incomplete metamorphosis
especially : incomplete metamorphosis in various insects with aquatic larvae in which the young does not resemble the adult

Word History

Etymology

hemi- entry 1 + metabolism or metabole or metaboly

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 hemimetabolism

Cite this Entry

“Hemimetabolism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hemimetabolism. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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