Acineta

/ˌæsɪˈniːtə/ noun

Definition

A genus of single-celled protozoan organisms (ciliates) that lacks cilia in its adult form, often parasitic on other protozoans.

Etymology

From Greek 'a-' (without) plus 'kinetos' (moving). The name reflects that adult acinetas are stationary, lacking the motion-providing cilia of related organisms.

Kelly Says

Acinetas are parasites that attack other microscopic creatures—discovering them required inventing a word to describe something 'without motion,' which is philosophically backward since their hosts are also usually immobile!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.