pygidium

[ pahy-jid-ee-uhm ]

noun

, Zoology.

, plural py·gid·i·a [pahy-, jid, -ee-, uh].

1. any of various structures or regions at the caudal end of the body in certain invertebrates.

pygidium

/ -ˈɡɪd-; paɪˈdʒɪdɪəm /

noun

1. the terminal segment, division, or other structure in certain annelids, arthropods, and other invertebrates

Derived Forms

• pyˈgidial, adjective

Other Words From

• py·gidi·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pygidium¹

1840–50; < New Latin < Greek pȳg ( ḗ ) rump + -idion diminutive suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of pygidium¹

C19: from New Latin, from Greek pugē rump

Example Sentences

All indications are that the spine was not in any sense a pygidium.

From Project Gutenberg

It and the pygidium are due solely to functional requirements.

From Project Gutenberg

Pygidium and part of the thorax, with some of the appendages.

From Project Gutenberg

Appendages of the thorax and pygidium, seen from the dorsal side.

From Project Gutenberg

This same type of broad-bladed exopodite is also found on the thorax and pygidium.

From Project Gutenberg