Defn: A diphthong in the Latin language; used also by the Saxon writers. It answers to the Gr. æ was generally replaced by a, the long e or ee. In derivatives from Latin words with ae, it is mostly superseded by e. For most words found with this initial combination, the reader will therefore search under the letter E.
AECIDIUM
Æ*cid"i*um, n.; pl. Æcidia. Etym: [NL., dim. of Gr. (Bot.)
Defn: A form of fruit in the cycle of development of the Rusts or
Brands, an order of fungi, formerly considered independent plants.
AEDILE
Æ"dile, n. Etym: [L. aedilis, fr. aedes temple, public building. Cf.
Edify.]
Defn: A magistrate in ancient Rome, who had the superintendence of public buildings, highways, shows, etc.; hence, a municipal officer.
AEDILESHIP
Æ"dile*ship, n.
Defn: The office of an ædile. T. Arnold.
AEGEAN
Æ*ge"an, a. Etym: [L. Aegeus; Gr.
Defn: Of or pertaining to the sea, or arm of the Mediterranean sea, east of Greece. See Archipelago.
AEGICRANIA
Æ`gi*cra"ni*a, n. pl. Etym: [NL., fr. Gr. (Arch.)