ptilinum

noun

pti·​li·​num
-nəm
plural ptilina
-nə
: a vesicular organ on the front of the head of flies that assists in rupturing the pupa case and shortly afterward shrinks away

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, probably from ptil- + Latin -inum (neuter of -inus -ine)

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Dictionary Entries Near ptilinum

ptilinal

ptilinum

Ptilocercus

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Cite this Entry

“Ptilinum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ptilinum. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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