polyp

noun

pol·​yp ˈpä-ləp 

1

: the sessile form of cnidarian (such as a coral or sea anemone) typically having a hollow cylindrical body closed and attached at one end and opening at the other by a central mouth surrounded by tentacles armed with nematocysts

2

: a growth projecting from a mucous membrane (as of the colon or vocal cords)

polypoid

ˈpä-lə-ˌpȯid 

adjective

Examples of polyp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Allergic reactions to pollen can cause chronic cough, nasal polyps, allergic conjunctivitis and ear infections, a feeling of fullness and pain, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. —Hali Smith march 10, Idaho Statesman, 10 Mar. 2026

Nasal polyps, which are found in up to 4% of people, are an outgrowth of the nasal lining that usually occurs in both nostrils. —Adam Taylor, CNN Money, 8 Mar. 2026

Anyone with a parent, sibling, or child diagnosed with colorectal cancer or advanced polyps may need to start screening before age 45. —Dr. Ishani D. Premaratne, ABC News, 2 Mar. 2026

Midway through his presidency in 1985, after doctors discovered a benign polyp and traces of blood during routine tests, Reagan was advised to avoid rare steak and other red meats. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 16 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French polype octopus, nasal polyp, from Old French polipe, from Latin polypus, from Greek polypous, from poly- + pous foot — more at foot

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for polyp

• dollop
• wallop

Kids Definition

polyp

noun

pol·​yp ˈpäl-əp 

: an invertebrate animal (as a sea anemone or a coral) that is a coelenterate having a hollow cylinder-shaped body closed and attached at one end and opening at the other by a central mouth surrounded by tentacles armed with minute stinging organs

Medical Definition

polyp

noun

pol·​yp ˈpäl-əp 

: a projecting mass of swollen and hypertrophied or tumorous membrane (as in the nasal cavity or the intestine)

called also polypus