Rhynchocephalia

plural noun

Rhyn·​cho·​ce·​pha·​lia
ˌriŋ(ˌ)kōsə̇ˈfālyə,
-ālēə
: an order of Reptilia that comprises forms resembling lizards but having biconcave vertebrae, immovable quadrate bones, and other peculiar osteological characters and that includes Sphenodon and numerous fossil genera compare tuatara
rhynchocephalian adjective or noun
rhynchocephalic
-¦falik
adjective
rhynchocephalous
¦⸗(ˌ)⸗¦sefələs
adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from rhynch- + cephal- + -ia

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!

Dictionary Entries Near Rhynchocephalia

Cite this Entry

“Rhynchocephalia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Rhynchocephalia. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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