protoconch

noun

pro·​to·​conch

ˈprōtə+ˌ-

1

: the embryonic shell of a mollusk (as a univalve)

2

: the apical chamber or whorl of an ammonite or gastropod

protoconchal

¦⸗⸗+

adjective

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary prot- + conch

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!