Branchial

/ˈbræŋkiəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or affecting gills or gill-like structures; involving the respiratory organs of aquatic animals.

Etymology

From branchia (gill) + -al (adjective suffix), creating a word to describe anything connected to gills. Used in anatomy and zoology since the 18th century.

Kelly Says

Humans have branchial arches hidden in our embryos—these structures evolved from fish gills and become our jaws and ear bones, proving we're literally descended from fish with gills.

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