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cercus

noun
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cer·​cus | \ ˈsər-kəs How to pronounce cercus (audio) \
plural cerci\ ˈsər-​ˌsī How to pronounce cercus (audio) , -​ˌkī \

Definition of cercus

: either of a pair of simple or segmented appendages at the posterior end of various arthropods that usually act as sensory organs

First Known Use of cercus

1826, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for cercus

New Latin, from Greek kerkos

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Dictionary Entries Near cercus

cercosporiosis

cercus

-cercy

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Cite this Entry

“Cercus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cercus. Accessed 30 Jun. 2022.

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More Definitions for cercus

cercus

noun
cer·​cus | \ ˈsər-kəs How to pronounce cercus (audio) \
plural cerci\ ˈsər-​ˌsī, -​ˌkī How to pronounce cercus (audio) \

Medical Definition of cercus

: either of a pair of simple or segmented appendages at the posterior end of various arthropods

More from Merriam-Webster on cercus

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cercus

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