Gnathidium

/næˈθɪd.i.əm/ noun

Definition

A small jaw-like structure or a jaw-like part of an organism, especially in invertebrates.

Etymology

From Greek 'gnathos' (jaw) with Latin diminutive suffix -idium, meaning a small or minor jaw-like structure.

Kelly Says

The -idium ending signals 'a small version of' something—so gnathidium tells you an organism has a jaw-like structure without having an actual jaw, which is perfect for describing tiny arthropod parts.

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