actinula

noun

ac·​tin·​u·​la

ak-ˈtin-yə-lə

plural actinulas or actinulae

ak-ˈtin-yə-ˌlē

: a creeping larva of the hydroid generation of certain coelenterates (as Tubularia) that finally attaches and develops into a polyp

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from actin- + -ula

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

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!