telson

[ tel-suhn ]

noun

1. the last segment, or an appendage of the last segment, of certain arthropods, as the middle flipper of a lobster's tail.

telson

/ tɛlˈsɒnɪk; ˈtɛlsən /

noun

1. the last segment or an appendage on the last segment of the body of crustaceans and arachnids

Derived Forms

• telsonic, adjective

Other Words From

• tel·son·ic [tel-, son, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of telson¹

First recorded in 1850–55, telson is from the Greek word télson boundary, limit

Word History and Origins

Origin of telson¹

C19: from Greek: a boundary; probably related to telos end

Example Sentences

The appendages on the next to last segment are divided and broadly flattened, forming with the telson a powerful swimming-paddle.

From Project Gutenberg

The sixth segment of the abdomen has a pair of biramous appendages, which, with the telson, form a swimming-fan.

From Project Gutenberg

Telson, tel′son, n. the last somite of the pleon or abdomen of certain crustaceans and arachnidans.

From Project Gutenberg

Among the last, looking about anxiously for a place to stand and watch the big race, are Telson and Parson, arm-in-arm.

From Project Gutenberg

The cheers, of course, all round the field are tremendous, and nowhere more exciting than where Telson and Parson are located.

From Project Gutenberg