Shell: of small to large size, elongate conic, non-umbilicate; axial sculpture usually predominant, usually of prominent, broad ribs. Weak spiral threads often present, sometimes broad with spaces between them sunken to form shallow pits. Sculpture weak to moderately strong axial ribs; spiral cords weak, low, usually do not cross axial ribs; axials not terminated at periphery by a spiral cord but usually weak or absent on base; sometimes smooth. Aperture with shallow posterior sinus broadly rounded anteriorly; columella often thick, sometimes twisted. Outer lip opisthocline to prosocline, with weak to pronounced varix externally. Protoconch narrowly conic, edge sinuate, usually more than two whorls. Prodissoconch usually small, slightly tilted, sometimes sculptured with a few, very weak spiral threads which disappear before commencement of second whorl; otherwise smooth.