centipede

American  

[sen-tuh-peed] / ˈsɛn təˌpid /

noun

1. any of numerous predaceous, chiefly nocturnal arthropods constituting the class Chilopoda, having an elongated, flattened body composed of from 15 to 173 segments, each with a pair of legs, the first pair being modified into poison fangs.

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centipede British  

/ ˈsɛntɪˌpiːd /

noun

1. any carnivorous arthropod of the genera Lithobius, Scutigera, etc, having a body of between 15 and 190 segments, each bearing one pair of legs: class Chilopoda See also myriapod

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centipede Scientific  

/ sĕn′tə-pēd′ /

1. Any of various flattened, wormlike arthropods of the class Chilopoda, whose bodies are divided into many segments, each with one pair of legs. The front legs are modified into venomous pincers used to catch prey.

2. Compare millipede

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Other Word Forms

• centipedal adjective

Etymology

Origin of centipede

From the Latin word centipeda, dating back to 1595–1605. See centi-, -pede

Compare meaning

How does centipede compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• centipede vs. millipede

Example Sentences

Since replacing windows can cost enough arms and legs to make a human centipede, it’s worth looking into adding interior insulating layers to your existing windows.

From The Wall Street Journal

Lee, a doctoral student at UC Berkeley, has discovered and documented thirty centipedes species in California.

From Seattle Times

Experts say the loss of such specimens — even uncharismatic ones such as centipedes — is a setback for science.

From Salon

Chinese red-headed centipedes, which are sightless, use an unusual thermal sensor to detect sunlight, a study has found.

From Science Magazine

Now, researchers have figured out how these centipedes avoid the sunlight they can’t see.

From Science Magazine

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