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holometabolous

American  
[hol-oh-mi-tab-uh-luhs, hoh-loh-] / ˌhɒl oʊ mɪˈtæb ə ləs, ˌhoʊ loʊ- /
Also holometabolic

adjective

Entomology.
  1. undergoing complete metamorphosis.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of holometabolous

1865–70; holo- + Greek metabólos; see metabolism, -ous

Example Sentences

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A much more thorough appreciation than we yet possess of the phenomena in these cases is necessary in order completely to demonstrate the special characteristics of the holometabolous transformation.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 13, Slice 4 "Hero" to "Hindu Chronology" by Various

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