Dictionary definitions
- Enter a word for the dictionary definition.
bivalve
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Bivalve \Bi"valve\, n. [F. bivalve; bi- (L. bis) + valve valve.]
1. (Zool.) A mollusk having a shell consisting of two lateral
plates or valves joined together by an elastic ligament at
the hinge, which is usually strengthened by prominences
called teeth. The shell is closed by the contraction of
two transverse muscles attached to the inner surface, as
in the clam, -- or by one, as in the oyster. See Mollusca.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Bot.) A pericarp in which the seed case opens or splits
into two parts or valves.
[1913 Webster]
.
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Bivalve \Bi"valve\, a. [Pref. bi- + valve.] (Zool. & Bot.) Having two shells or valves which open and shut, as the oyster and certain seed vessels. [1913 Webster]
