Definition of proboscisnext
as in snout
the part of the face bearing the nostrils and nasal cavity if there were a direct relation between mendacity and the length of one's proboscis, hers would be a mile long

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of proboscis These powerful proboscises are strong enough to push over 900 pound trees and gentle enough to pick up a tortilla chip without breaking it. Sarah Kaplan, Washington Post, 12 Feb. 2026 Next, the soft protective outer sheath of each insect's proboscis was detached and discarded. New Atlas, 27 Dec. 2025 Well, then it’s being stolen right out from under its retracting proboscis, which is actually just another drooling head that lives in its mouth. Brian Moylan, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2025 Based on this, the researchers estimate that the proboscis may have first evolved between 260 and 244 million years ago, right after the mass extinction. Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for proboscis
Recent Examples of Synonyms for proboscis
Noun
  • One way to tell 164 apart from the other bears in the area is the dark vertical indentation on his upper muzzle (or snout).
    Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 20 Aug. 2026
  • The species is distinguished by relatively large ears and broad snouts covered with fine hairs.
    Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 16 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The microscopic amoeba thrives in warm freshwater and can cause a neurological infection when water containing the amoeba rushes through the nose and reaches the brain, according to the state health department.
    Diego Mendoza, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
  • That includes simple double-ribbon tail lights, a delightfully unfussy side profile, and absolutely astounding headlights that somehow emanate from jewellike strips that run across the nose of the vehicle.
    Marco Della Cava, Robb Report, 24 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Proboscis.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/proboscis. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on proboscis

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster