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graptolite

noun
grap·​to·​lite | \ ˈgrap-tə-ˌlīt How to pronounce graptolite (audio) \

Definition of graptolite

: any of an extinct class (Graptolithina) of hemichordate colonial marine animals of the Paleozoic era with zooids contained in conical cups along a chitinous support

Examples of graptolite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 One of the most emblematic animals of the Ordovician Radiation is the now-extinct graptolite. — Annalee Newitz, Ars Technica, "If you liked the Cambrian Explosion, you’ll love the Ordovician Radiation," 21 Nov. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'graptolite.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of graptolite

1841, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for graptolite

Greek graptos painted (from graphein to write, paint) + English -lite — more at carve

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Time Traveler for graptolite

The first known use of graptolite was in 1841

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More from Merriam-Webster on graptolite

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about graptolite

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