selachian

noun

se·​la·​chi·​an sə-ˈlā-kē-ən How to pronounce selachian (audio)
: any of a variously classified group (Selachii) of cartilaginous fishes that includes the existing sharks and typically most related elasmobranchs (such as rays)
selachian adjective

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek selachos cartilaginous phosphorescent fish; akin to Greek selas brightness

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of selachian was in 1835

Dictionary Entries Near selachian

Cite this Entry

“Selachian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/selachian. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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