branchio-

1. a combining form meaning “gills,” used in the formation of compound words.

   branchiopod.

Word History and Origins

Origin of branchio-¹

Combining form representing Greek bránchia branchia

When To Use

What does branchio- mean?

Branchio- is a combining form used like a prefix meaning “gills.” It is used in many scientific terms.Branchio- comes from the Greek bránchia, meaning “gills,” plural of bránchion, “fin.” Bránchia is also the source of the English word branchia, meaning "gill." Learn more at our entry for the word.What are variants of branchio-?When combined with words or word elements that begin with a vowel, branchio- becomes branchi-, as in branchial.