Chaetodontidae

plural noun

Chae·​to·​don·​ti·​dae

: a large family of percoid tropical marine fishes common about coral reefs that includes the butterfly fishes

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Chaetodont-, Chaetodon, type genus + -idae

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now