sciniph

noun

scin·​iph

ˈsinə̇f

plural -s

: a stinging or biting insect in Exodus 8:17 (Douay Version) or a gnat (Revised Standard Version)

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin sciniphes, plural, sciniphs, from Greek skniphes, plural of sknips small woodworm; akin to Greek knips, an insect

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!