amphistyly
|am-phi-sty-ly|
C2
/ˈæmfɪˌstaɪli/
dual jaw support
Etymology
Etymology Information
'amphistyly' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'amphi-' meaning 'both' and 'stylos' meaning 'pillar'.
Historical Evolution
'amphi-' and 'stylos' combined in Greek to form 'amphistyly', which was adopted into English scientific terminology.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to the dual support system in vertebrate jaws, and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a type of jaw suspension in vertebrates where the upper jaw is attached to the skull and the lower jaw is supported by the hyomandibular and quadrate bones.
Amphistyly is observed in some primitive fish species.
Last updated: 2025/07/22 19:36