Definition

Noun: A marine gastropod mollusk characterized by a conical shell with a distinctive opening at the very top (apex). This opening resembles a keyhole, which gives the animal its name. Keyhole limpets are herbivores, often found in intertidal zones.

Usage and Examples

• The keyhole limpet is easily identified by the hole at the top of its shell.
• On the rocky shore, we observed several keyhole limpets clinging to the surface.
• The shell of a keyhole limpet is often used by hermit crabs after the limpet dies.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific contexts, "keyhole limpet" often refers specifically to species within the family Fissurellidae.
• The term can be used metaphorically to describe something with a similar shape: "The ancient artifact had a keyhole limpet form."

Variants and Related Words

• Limpet (n.): A general term for marine snails with a simple, conical, non-coiling shell that clings tightly to rocks. All keyhole limpets are limpets, but not all limpets are keyhole limpets.
• Fissurellid (n.): The scientific family name for keyhole limpets and related species.

Synonyms

• Marine limpet
• Fissurellid limpet

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To cling like a limpet: An idiom meaning to hold on very tightly or persistently. While this idiom uses the general term "limpet," it evokes the same tenacious behavior exhibited by keyhole limpets.
  • Example: The child clung to her mother like a limpet in the crowded market.

Noun

1. marine limpet having a conical shell with an opening at the apex