isopod

noun

iso·​pod ˈī-sə-ˌpäd How to pronounce isopod (audio)
: 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

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'isopod.' 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 is- + pod-, pous foot — more at foot

First Known Use

circa 1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of isopod was circa 1835

Dictionary Entries Near isopod

Cite this Entry

“Isopod.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/isopod. Accessed 31 Mar. 2023.

Kids Definition

isopod

noun
iso·​pod ˈī-sə-ˌpäd How to pronounce isopod (audio)
: 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

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