mastax

[ mas-taks ]

noun

1. the muscular pharynx of a rotifer, containing a chewing apparatus.

Word History and Origins

Origin of mastax¹

1850–55; < New Latin < Greek mástax mouth, jaws, akin to masâsthai to chew

Example Sentences

The eminent naturalist we have named calls the whole organ the mastax, and states that it is composed of dense muscular fibre.

From Project Gutenberg