centipede

noun

cen·​ti·​pede ˈsen-tə-ˌpēd 

: any of a class (Chilopoda) of long flattened many-segmented predaceous arthropods with each segment bearing one pair of legs of which the foremost pair is modified into poison fangs

Illustration of centipede

Examples of centipede in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Most centipede bites happen when someone slips their foot into a shoe with a centipede hiding in the toe box. —Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 10 Sep. 2024

Prevent dust mites and other invading pests, like millipedes, centipedes, or termites, from moving into the home by reducing the overall moisture levels indoors. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 July 2024

Most lawn grasses prefer a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.5, although centipede likes a pH between 5.5 to 6.0. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 19 July 2024

Sea creatures went from being soft and flexible to something similar to modern-day arthropods, like crustaceans and centipedes, according to the study. —Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 26 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin centipeda, from centi- + ped-, pes foot — more at foot

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

centipede

noun

cen·​ti·​pede ˈsent-ə-ˌpēd 

: any of a class of long flattened arthropods that have many segments with each segment having one pair of legs except for the first segment which has a pair of poison fangs compare millipede

Etymology

from Latin centipeda "centipede," from centi- "hundred" and -peda, from ped-, pes "foot" — related to pedestrian

Medical Definition

centipede

noun

cen·​ti·​pede ˈsent-ə-ˌpēd 

: any member of the class Chilopoda of long flattened many-segmented predaceous arthropods with each segment bearing one pair of legs of which the foremost pair is modified into poison fangs