isopod

noun

iso·​pod ˈī-sə-ˌpäd 

: any of a large order (Isopoda) of small sessile-eyed aquatic or terrestrial crustaceans with the body composed of seven free thoracic segments each bearing a pair of similar legs

isopod adjective

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Chilly waters also slow the metabolism of some species, like giant isopods, so that an environment with minimal food isn’t as problematic. —Liz Langley, National Geographic, 8 Oct. 2019

Chief among these sea bottom dwellers are giant isopods, scientifically known as Bathynomus giganteus. —David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, 12 Apr. 2019

Giant isopods can go a remarkable four years without food. —David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, 12 Apr. 2019

Most were spineless marine critters: sea stars, sea slugs, oysters, barnacles, mussels, amphipods, bryozoans and isopods. —Ben Guarino, Alaska Dispatch News, 29 Sep. 2017

The connective tissue between the Surface Book’s base and display is an isopod-like piece of aluminum that flexes back and forth thanks to four rotational points. —Margaret Rhodes, WIRED, 7 Oct. 2015

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek is- + pod-, pous foot — more at foot

First Known Use

circa 1835, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

isopod

noun

iso·​pod ˈī-sə-ˌpäd 

: any of a large order of small crustaceans (as a wood louse) with a thorax made up of seven segments of which each bears a pair of legs

isopod adjective