tube foot

noun

: one of the small flexible tubular processes of most echinoderms that are extensions of the water-vascular system and are used especially in locomotion and grasping

Examples of tube foot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The new species was identified by its tube feet, tentacles and other subtle physical features, the study said. —Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2024

Its hunting efficacy stems from its spiny exterior and dexterous tube feet, enabling it to adeptly navigate and capture prey on the muddy seafloor. —Anna Nordseth, Discover Magazine, 1 Mar. 2024

At first glance, starfish seem to be all limbs, with five appendages lined with rows of tube feet giving them their signature shape. —Lori Youmshajekian, Scientific American, 3 Nov. 2023

Some use tiny tube feet to crawl, while others, like Synapta, move in undulating, wavelike motions. —Shaena Montanari, National Geographic, 21 July 2017

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

tube foot

noun

: one of the tiny tubes of most echinoderms (as a starfish or sea urchin) that are part of the water-vascular system and are used especially in movement and grasping