graptolite

noun

grap·to·lite | \ ˈgrap-tə-ˌlīt

\

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

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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.

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The first known use of graptolite was in 1841

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