eurypterid

noun

eu·​ryp·​ter·​id yu̇-ˈrip-tə-rəd How to pronounce eurypterid (audio)
: any of an order (Eurypterida) of usually large aquatic Paleozoic arthropods resembling scorpions and related to the horseshoe crabs

called also sea scorpion

eurypterid adjective

Illustration of eurypterid

Illustration of eurypterid

Examples of eurypterid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Mixopterids, the most remarkable of the eurypterid (sea scorpion) species, are known for their large limbs to capture prey. Naomi Ludlow, USA TODAY, 30 Oct. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'eurypterid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek eury- + pteron wing — more at feather

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of eurypterid was in 1871

Dictionary Entries Near eurypterid

Cite this Entry

“Eurypterid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eurypterid. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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