specus

noun

spe·​cus
ˈspēkəs
plural specuses or specus
: the roofed channel in which the water of an ancient Roman aqueduct flows whether underground or raised on embankments or arches

Word History

Etymology

Latin, cave, cavity, drain, channel; probably akin to Latin specere to look

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

Dictionary Entries Near specus

Cite this Entry

“Specus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specus. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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