epitheca
noun
epi·theca
\"+\
Definition of epitheca
1 : an external calcareous layer investing the lower portion of the theca of many corals
2 : the outer or upper half or valve of the diatom frustule — compare hypotheca
epithecal
\"+\ orepithecate
\"+\ adjectiveRead the Latest from M-W
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!
Origin and Etymology of epitheca
New Latin, from epi- + -theca
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up epitheca? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!