planula

noun

plan·​u·​la ˈplan-yə-lə How to pronounce planula (audio)
plural planulae ˈplan-yə-ˌlē How to pronounce planula (audio)
-ˌlī
: the very young usually flattened oval or oblong free-swimming ciliated larva of a cnidarian

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin planus level, flat — more at floor

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of planula was in 1835

Dictionary Entries Near planula

plantule

planula

planuloid

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Planula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/planula. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about planula

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