opisthocœlian, a. (n.) Zool. and Comp. Anat.
(-ˈsiːlɪən)
[f. as next + -ian.]
= next; also, having opisthocœlous vertebræ. Also as n. An opisthocœlian animal, esp. (extinct) reptile.
| 1854 Owen Skel. & Teeth in Circ. Sc., Organ. Nat. I. 202 Vertebræ of the ‘opisthocœlian’ type. 1870 Rolleston Anim. Life Introd. 62 The vertebrae..show, ordinarily, the procoelian, though, sometimes, the opisthocoelian arrangement of the articular ends of their centra. 1888 Rolleston & Jackson Anim. Life 383 Opisthocoelian..centra are found in exceptional instances [in Reptilia]. |