Nephila

noun

Neph·​i·​la
ˈnefələ
: a genus (family Nephilidae) of large, elongate, brightly marked, mainly tropical spiders including the golden silk spider (N. clavipes)

Note: The genus Nephila was formerly classified in the family Araneidae, comprising the orb weavers, but is now usually classified in a separate family (Nephilidae).

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek nēn to spin + New Latin -phila

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Cite this Entry

“Nephila.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Nephila. Accessed 16 Dec. 2024.

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