parapodium

[par-uh-poh-dee-uh m]

noun, plural par·a·po·di·a

[par-uh-poh-dee-uh] /ˌpær əˈpoʊ di ə/. Zoology.

one of the unjointed rudimentary limbs or processes of locomotion of many worms, as annelids.

Origin of parapodium

First recorded in 1875–80; para-¹ + -podium

Related formspar·a·po·di·al, adjective

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for parapodium

Historical Examples of parapodium

The parapodium is represented with its neural or ventral surface uppermost.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Slice 6
Various
Neurocirri slender, subcylindric, somewhat conical distally or sometimes a little clavate, surpassing end of parapodium.
Journal of Entomology and Zoology, Vol. 11. No. 1.
Various
The natocirrus is reduced to a small rounded or nodular form slightly above base of parapodium.
Journal of Entomology and Zoology, Vol. 11. No. 1.
Various
The notocirrus is small and occupies the usual place in the angle between the dorsal surface of the parapodium and the body-wall.
Journal of Entomology and Zoology, Vol. 11. No. 1.
Various

British Dictionary definitions for parapodium

parapodium

noun plural -dia (-dɪə)

any of the paired unjointed lateral appendages of polychaete worms, used in locomotion, respiration, etc
any of various similar appendages of other invertebrates, esp certain molluscs

Word Origin for parapodium

New Latin: from para- 1 + -podium

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012