phasmid

noun

phas·mid ˈfaz-məd

: any of an order (Phasmatodea synonym Phasmida) of large cylindrical or sometimes flattened chiefly tropical insects (such as a walking stick) that have long legs, strictly phytophagous habits, and incomplete metamorphosis and that include forms resembling leaves or twigs

phasmid adjective

Examples of phasmid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Some lost species, including the phasmid, have subsequently been rediscovered on surrounding islets. —

John Pickrell, Science | AAAS, 5 June 2019

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Phasmida, group name, from Phasma, type genus, from Greek, apparition, from phainein to show — more at fancy

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of phasmid was in 1864

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Style

“Phasmid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phasmid. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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Medical Definition

phasmid

noun

phas·mid ˈfas-mid

: either of the paired lateral postanal organs characteristic of most parasitic nematodes and usually regarded as chemoreceptors see phasmidia

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phasmid

noun

Examples of phasmid in a Sentence

Word History

Dictionary Entries Near phasmid

Cite this Entry

Medical Definition