Selachii
plural noun
Se·la·chii
-kēˌī
in some classifications
: a variously delimited group of elasmobranch fishes:
a
: a primary division of Pisces that includes all the elasmobranchs and is equivalent to Chondrichthyes
b
: a class or subclass that includes all the elasmobranchs except the chimaeras
c
: a subclass or order that includes the existing sharks and rays as distinguished from the extinct Pleuropterygii and Ichthyotomi
d
: a suborder that includes the existing sharks as distinguished from the rays and is equivalent to Pleurotremata
Word History
Etymology
New Latin, irregular from selachos cartilaginous fish; akin to Greek selas light, brightness