Porpita

noun

Por·​pi·​ta

ˈpȯ(r)pətə

: a genus of small bright-colored siphonophores that float in the warmer parts of the ocean and have a large feeding zooid and a float in the center surrounded by smaller nutritive and reproductive zooids and by slender dactylozooids near the margin

porpitoid

-)pəˌtȯid

adjective or noun

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek porpē brooch; probably akin to Greek peirein to pierce, peran to pass through

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now