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testaceous

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /tɛˈsteɪʃəs/

KK: /tɛˈsteɪʃəs/

adjective
Definition

Relating to or having a shell or shell-like covering, often used in biology to describe certain organisms or structures.


Example

The testaceous species of mollusks are known for their hard, protective shells.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of testaceous creatures in biology?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think they have hard shells, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it fascinating how nature creates such testaceous forms.
Sloth B
Me too! It really shows the diversity of life on our planet.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
shell-like
hardshelled
chitinous
Antonyms
soft
fragile
brittle
Root Explanation

Testaceous → It is formed from "testa" (meaning shell) and the suffix "-ceous" (meaning having the nature of). The word "testaceous" refers to something that has a shell-like quality or is shell-like in nature.

Memory Tip

Think of 'testa' meaning shell, and remember that 'testaceous' describes something that has the nature of a shell.

Visually Confused Words
tetracerous
restiaceous
theaceous
setaceous
cetaceous
rufotestaceous
ecrustaceous
tetracerus
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