desmognathous Meaning, Definition & Usage

Des*mog"na*thous adjective

Etymology

Gr. desmo`s bond + jaw.

Definitions

1. (Zoöl.) Having the maxillo-palatine bones united; -- applied to a group of carinate birds (Desmognathæ), including various wading and swimming birds, as the ducks and herons, and also raptorial and other kinds.