Elapsoidea

/ɛˌlæpsɔɪˈdiːə/ noun

Definition

A taxonomic group or category related to or resembling elapine snakes, used in scientific classification of serpents.

Etymology

From Greek 'elaps' (snake) combined with the suffix '-oidea,' a taxonomic suffix indicating a family or larger grouping in biological classification.

Kelly Says

Scientists use the suffix '-oidea' (pronounced like 'idea') to name entire families and superfamilies in the animal kingdom—so Elapsoidea represents an entire branch of the snake family tree distinguished by shared evolutionary history.

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