Cribellum

/krɪˈbɛləm/ noun

Definition

A specialized spinning organ in certain spiders that produces fine, comb-like silk used to capture prey.

Etymology

From Latin 'cribellum,' diminutive of 'cribrum' meaning sieve, named for its sieve-like appearance and function in producing fine silk.

Kelly Says

Spiders with cribellums have an evolutionary advantage—their special combed silk is so effective at catching flying insects that some spider families went extinct because they couldn't compete.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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