Gracilaria

/ɡræsɪˈlɛəriə/ noun

Definition

A genus of red algae found in coastal waters worldwide, often used in food and cosmetics.

Etymology

From Latin 'gracilis' (slender) plus the feminine suffix '-aria'. Named for the algae's delicate, thin appearance, this scientific name was coined by scientists following Linnaean naming conventions.

Kelly Says

Gracilaria is harvested for carrageenan, the thickener in your ice cream and chocolate milk—this humble seaweed is in thousands of foods but almost nobody knows its name!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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