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Definition of osteoglossum

osteoglossum

/ˌɑːstioʊˈɡlɑːsəm/
os · te · o · glos · sum

Plural:osteoglossums
•
Adjective:osteoglossid
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osteoglossum Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A taxonomic genus of large, elongated freshwater bony fish native to the Amazon Basin and other parts of South America, commonly known as arowanas, distinguished by their large scales and a prominent bony tongue.

Example

"The silver arowana, widely kept by experienced aquarium enthusiasts, is the most well-known species within the genus Osteoglossum."

• Rhymes for osteoglossum

Word Origin & Etymology

From Modern Latin Osteoglossum, derived from Ancient Greek 'osteon' (bone) and 'glossa' (tongue), referring to the distinctive toothed bone located on the floor of the fish's mouth.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Osteoglossum. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/osteoglossum
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