Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
×

Entomostraca

plural noun En·to·mos·tra·ca \ ˌentəˈmästrə̇kə \

Definition of Entomostraca

in some classifications
: a subclass of Crustacea comprising the Branchiopoda, Ostracoda, Copepoda, and Cirripedia, groups regarded by most modern systematists as too diverse for inclusion in a single subclass, the name then being used as a term of convenience without taxonomic implications
—

entomostracan

adjective or noun
—

entomostracous

\-kəs\ adjective

There's more!

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!
Already a subscriber? Log in.

Origin and Etymology of entomostraca

New Latin, from entom- + -ostraca (from Greek ostrakon earthen vessel, potsherd, shell)

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up Entomostraca? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games