Rhizomastigina

plural noun

Rhi·​zo·​mas·​ti·​gi·​na

¦rī(ˌ)zōˌmastəˈjīnə

: an order of Zoomastigina that comprises protozoans which have both flagella and pseudopods and which chiefly are obscure soil or water organisms though a few are commensals and one (Histomonas meleagris) causes the serious blackhead of turkeys and other fowl

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Rhizomastig-, Rhizomastix, genus of protozoa (from rhiz- + Greek mastig-, mastix whip, scourge) + -ina

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!