isopod

noun

iso·​pod ˈī-sə-ˌpäd 

: any of a large order (Isopoda) of small sessile-eyed aquatic or terrestrial crustaceans with the body composed of seven free thoracic segments each bearing a pair of similar legs

isopod adjective

Examples of isopod in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Paddling in the deepest depths of the Atlantic Ocean, the poker chip–size invertebrates—isopods of the species Bathyopsurus nybelini—tug along fronds of seaweed sometimes longer than themselves while swimming upside down and backward. —Byhannah Richter, science.org, 10 Sep. 2024

The examples are numerous, from giant isopods that resemble overgrown pill bugs to the elusive colossal squid. —Max Bennett, Discover Magazine, 15 Jan. 2024

Common coastal stowaways included amphipods, isopods, hydroids and bryozoans, most of which originated from the northwest Pacific. —Tim Brinkhof, Discover Magazine, 25 Nov. 2023

First, mobile scavengers like sleeper sharks, hagfish, and isopods travel long distances to feast on the carcass. —Popsci Staff, Popular Science, 10 May 2023

Meet the giant deep-sea isopod here. —Laura L. Davis, USA TODAY, 11 Aug. 2022

Chilly waters also slow the metabolism of some species, like giant isopods, so that an environment with minimal food isn’t as problematic. —Liz Langley, National Geographic, 8 Oct. 2019

Chief among these sea bottom dwellers are giant isopods, scientifically known as Bathynomus giganteus. —David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, 12 Apr. 2019

Giant isopods can go a remarkable four years without food. —David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, 12 Apr. 2019

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek is- + pod-, pous foot — more at foot

First Known Use

circa 1835, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

isopod

noun

iso·​pod ˈī-sə-ˌpäd 

: any of a large order of small crustaceans (as a wood louse) with a thorax made up of seven segments of which each bears a pair of legs

isopod adjective