prosobranch

noun

pros·​o·​branch ˈprä-sə-ˌbraŋk How to pronounce prosobranch (audio)
plural prosobranchs
: any of a subclass (Prosobranchia) of gastropod mollusks that have the loop of visceral nerves twisted into a figure eight, the sexes usually separate, and usually an operculum
prosobranch adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Prosobranchia, from proso- in front (from Greek prosō forward) + branchia gills (from Greek)

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prosobranch was in 1851

Dictionary Entries Near prosobranch

Cite this Entry

“Prosobranch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prosobranch. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.

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