star jelly

noun

: any of several algae that form gelatinous colonies
especially : any of various algae of the genus Nostoc (especially N. commune) that tend to form irregular or globular firm gelatinous pellets on marshy or frequently inundated ground

Word History

Etymology

so called from a popular belief that the gelatinous colonies fall from the stars

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Dictionary Entries Near star jelly

Cite this Entry

“Star jelly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/star%20jelly. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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