scopula

noun

scop·​u·​la

ˈskäpyələ

plural scopulas

-ləz

or scopulae

-yəˌlē

1

a

: a bushy tuft of hairs : scopa

b

: a tuft of hairs on the feet and chelicerae of spiders that is used in making the web

2

: an ornamented rhabdus

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Late Latin, small broom, diminutive of Latin scopa broom

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now