mastigophoran

noun

mas·​ti·​goph·​o·​ran ˌma-stə-ˈgä-fə-rən How to pronounce mastigophoran (audio)
: any of a subphylum (Mastigophora) of protozoans comprising forms with flagella and including many often treated as algae
mastigophoran adjective

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek mastig-, mastix whip + pherein to carry — more at bear

First Known Use

circa 1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mastigophoran was circa 1911

Dictionary Entries Near mastigophoran

Cite this Entry

“Mastigophoran.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mastigophoran. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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