tagma

noun

tag·​ma

ˈtagmə

plural tagmata

-mətə

: a compound body section of an arthropod resulting from embryonic fusion of two or more somites (as the cephalothorax of a spider) or consisting of two or more distinguishable segments (as the thorax of an insect)

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek tagma arrangement, order, row, from tassein, tattein to arrange

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