physogastry

noun

phy·​so·​gas·​try

variants or less commonly physogastrism

ˌ⸗⸗ˈgaˌstrizəm

plural physogastries also physogastrisms

: the condition (as of some termitophiles) of having the abdomen greatly distended compare stenogastry

Word History

Etymology

physogastry International Scientific Vocabulary phys- + gastr- + -y; physogastrism from phys- + gastr- + -ism

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now