amphioxus

noun am·phi·ox·us \ˌam(p)-fē-ˈäk-səs\

plural -oxi \-ˌsī\ or am·phi·ox·us·es

Definition of AMPHIOXUS

: any of a genus (Branchiostoma) of lancelets; broadly : lancelet

See amphioxus defined for kids

New Latin, from amphi- + Greek oxys sharp

First Known Use: 1847

Medical Dictionary

noun am·phi·ox·us \ˌam(p)-fē-ˈäk-səs\

plural -oxi \-ˌsī, -ˌsē\ or am·phi·ox·us·es

: a lancelet of the genus Branchiostoma; broadly : lancelet

Next Word in the Dictionary: amphipathicPrevious Word in the Dictionary: AmphioxididaeAll Words Near: amphioxus

What made you want to look up amphioxus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears