PROTOMERITE
Pro`to*mer"ite, n. Etym: [Proto- + -mere + -ite.] (Zoöl.)

Defn: The second segment of one of the Gregarinæ.

PROTOMETALS
Pro`to*met"als, n. pl.

Defn: A finer form of metals, indicated by enhanced lines in their spark spectra (which are also observed in the spectra of some stars), obtained at the highest available laboratory temperatures (Lockyer); as protocalcium, protochromium, protocopper, protonickel, protosilicon, protostrontium, prototitanium, protovanadium. — Pro`to*me*tal"ic (#), a.

PROTOMORPHIC
Pro`to*mor"phic, a. Etym: [Proto- + Gr. (Biol.)

Defn: Having the most primitive character; in the earliest form; as, a protomorphic layer of tissue. H. Spencer.

PROTONEMA
Pro`to*ne"ma, n.; pl. Protonemata. Etym: [NL., fr. Gr. (Bot.)

Defn: The primary growth from the spore of a moss, usually consisting of branching confervoid filaments, on any part of which stem and leaf buds may be developed.

PROTONOTARY
Pro*ton"o*ta*ry, n.

Defn: Same as Prothonotary.