rhizopod

[rahy-zuh-pod]

noun

1. any of numerous protozoa of the widespread subphylum (or superclass) Rhizopoda, characterized by a pseudopod and comprising most members of the phylum Sarcodina, including the amebas and foraminifers.

rhizopod

/ raɪˈzɒpədən, ˈraɪzəʊˌpɒd /

noun

1. any protozoan of the phylum Rhizopoda , characterized by naked protoplasmic processes (pseudopodia). The group includes the amoebas

adjective

1. of, relating to, or belonging to the Rhizopoda

rhizopod

1. Any of various protozoans of the group Rhizopoda, characteristically moving and taking in food by means of pseudopods. Rhizopods include amoebas and radiolarians.

Other Word Forms

• rhizopodan adjective
• rhizopodous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhizopod¹

First recorded in 1850–55, rhizopod is from the New Latin word Rhizopoda name of the superclass. See rhizo-, -pod

Example Sentences

A rhizopod. common in fresh water, capable of undergoing many changes of form at will.

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The book on microscopic fresh-water fauna had been explicit about Paramecium and Euglena, diatomes and rhizopods, but it had failed to mention anything so vulgar as germs.

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From naked amoeba the shell-protected rhizopods were no doubt evolved, and it is a curious sight to observe them swallowed, home and all, to be digested out of their house.

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Some time ago, while examining the inhabitants of a drop of pond water under a high-power lens, I noticed several rhizopods busily feeding on the minute buds of an alga.

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Agassiz remarks that the effect of the nature of the bottom of the sea on sponges and rhizopods “is an all-important factor in modifying the organism.”

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