eurypterid
1
9.9
- noun
- /jʊˈrɪptərɪd/
- Specialized
- "Disappointed at not finding an example of a eurypterid (also known as a sea scorpion), the state fossil of New York, Kevin resolved to make it his "goal in life to find a complete eurypterid" this summer.
Examples
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The scientist unearthed a rare fossil of a eurypterid, which provided new insights into marine life millions of years ago.
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In the fossil exhibit, I was amazed to see a large eurypterid, a creature that lived in ancient oceans.
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Eurypterid is Greek, or maybe it's Latin, for "big ugly water bug with an attitude."
Fiction book (2002) -
"Disappointed at not finding an example of a eurypterid (also known as a sea scorpion), the state fossil of New York, Kevin resolved to make it his "goal in life to find a complete eurypterid" this summer.
Academic text (2001) -
During our visit to the museum, we learned that the eurypterid is commonly referred to as a sea scorpion due to its appearance.
Synonyms
A large extinct sea animal like a scorpion that lived long ago
Surface Forms
Morphology
eurypterid = eurypter + id
Formed from specialized Greek combining elements (eurypter- + -id) used in taxonomy; these parts are not recognizable to average learners, so the meaning cannot be reliably derived from components.
Etymology
Eurypterid comes from Greek parts eurys 'wide' and pteron 'wing', and the pter- part is the same as in pterodactyl. That 'wide wing' picture fits the animal's broad, paddle-like limbs used for swimming, which helps explain why these extinct creatures are called sea scorpions.