metanephros
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meta·neph·ros

noun \-ˈne-frəs, -ˌfräs\
plural meta·neph·roi\-ˌfri\

Definition of METANEPHROS

: either member of the final and most caudal pair of the three successive pairs of vertebrate renal organs that functions as a permanent adult kidney in reptiles, birds, and mammals but is not present at all in lower forms — compare mesonephros, pronephros
meta·neph·ric \-frik\ adjective

Origin of METANEPHROS

New Latin, from meta- + Greek nephros kidney — more at nephritis
First Known Use: 1884

meta·neph·ros

noun \-ˈnef-rəs, -ˌräs\   (Medical Dictionary)
plural ; meta·neph·roi \-ˌri\ (audio pronunciation)

Medical Definition of METANEPHROS

: either member of the final and most caudal pair of the three successive pairs of vertebrate renal organs that functions as a permanent adult kidney in reptiles, birds, and mammals but is not present at all in lower forms—compare mesonephros, pronephros

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