amphiblastula

noun

am·​phi·​blas·​tu·​la
¦amfə̇-
plural amphiblastulae
: a free-swimming larva of certain sponges that is essentially a blastula with small flagellated cells in one hemisphere and large nonflagellated cells in the other

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from amphi- + blastula

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amphiblastula was in 1875

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!

Dictionary Entries Near amphiblastula

Cite this Entry

“Amphiblastula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amphiblastula. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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