| bivalve | 1. <marine biology> 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. 2. <botany> A pericarp in which the seed case opens or splits into two parts or valves. Origin: F. Bivalve; bi- (L. Bis) + valve valve. (19 Mar 1998) |
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| bivalve speculum | A speculum with two adjustable blades. (05 Mar 2000) |
| bivalved | <biology> Having two valves, as the oyster and some seed pods; bivalve. (19 Mar 1998) |