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Webster 1913 Edition
Bivalve
Bi′valve
,Noun.
[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.
2.
(Bot.)
A pericarp in which the seed case opens or splits into two parts or valves.
Bi′valve
,Adj.
[Pref.
bi-
+ valve
.] (Zool. & Bot.)
Having two shells or valves which open and shut, as the oyster and certain seed vessels.
Webster 1828 Edition
Bivalve
BI'VALVE
,Noun.
An animal having two valves, or a shell consisting of two parts which open and shut. Also a pericarp in which the seed-case opens or splits into two parts.