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

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Cite this Entry

“Rhynchocephalia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Rhynchocephalia. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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