Zygodactylae

plural noun

Zy·​go·​dac·​ty·​lae

variants or Zygodactyli

-ˌlī

in former classifications

: a group of nonpasserine birds consisting of those having zygodactyl feet

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from zyg- + -dactylae, -dactyli (from dactylus dactyl)

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!