myrmicine

noun

myr·​mi·​cine
ˈmərməˌsīn,
-sə̇n
plural -s
: any of a large subfamily of ants having the pedicel of the abdomen in two well-marked segments and including many of the commonly encountered forms (as the little black ant, leaf-cutting ants, and the pavement ant)

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Myrmicinae, subfamily of ants, from New Latin Myrmica, type genus (irregular from Greek myrmēk-, myrmēx ant) + -inae

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!

Dictionary Entries Near myrmicine

Cite this Entry

“Myrmicine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/myrmicine. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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