Definition

Noun A small, unsegmented marine worm. When disturbed, it retracts its anterior portion (head end) into its body, giving it an appearance similar to a peanut.

Usage

The word "sipunculid" is a scientific term used primarily in marine biology and zoology. It refers specifically to a member of the phylum Sipuncula. It is a formal, technical noun.

Examples

• The biologist studied the sipunculid burrowed in the sandy seabed.
• Under the microscope, the sipunculid's unique retractable introvert was clearly visible.
• A common name for a sipunculid is a "peanut worm" due to its shape when defensive.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used in taxonomic and ecological descriptions.
  • The sediment sample contained several species of polychaetes and one sipunculid.

Variants and Related Words

• Sipuncula: (noun) The phylum to which these worms belong.
  • Worms in the phylum Sipuncula are all marine.
• Peanut worm: (noun) The common name for a sipunculid.
  • The peanut worm is often found in intertidal zones.

Synonyms

• Peanut worm (common name)

Notes on Meaning

This word has a single, specific zoological meaning. It does not have different general meanings, idioms, or phrasal verbs associated with it.

Noun

1. small unsegmented marine worm that when disturbed retracts its anterior portion into the body giving the appearance of a peanut