centipede

[ sen-tuh-peed ]

noun

1. any of numerous predaceous, chiefly nocturnal arthropods constituting the class Chilopoda, having an elongated, flattened body composed of from 15 to 173 segments, each with a pair of legs, the first pair being modified into poison fangs.

centipede

/ ˈsɛntɪˌpiːd /

noun

1. any carnivorous arthropod of the genera Lithobius, Scutigera, etc, having a body of between 15 and 190 segments, each bearing one pair of legs: class Chilopoda See also myriapod

centipede

/ sĕn′tə-pēd′ /

1. Any of various flattened, wormlike arthropods of the class Chilopoda, whose bodies are divided into many segments, each with one pair of legs. The front legs are modified into venomous pincers used to catch prey.
2. Compare millipede

Other Words From

• cen·tip·e·dal [sen-, tip, -i-dl, sen-t, uh, -, peed, -l], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of centipede¹

From the Latin word centipeda, dating back to 1595–1605. See centi-, -pede

Example Sentences

Snakes make up most of the images, but human figures, centipedes, alligators, other animals, and geometric motifs also appear.

From Science Magazine

And despite having an elaborate, curling centipede inked on his face and neck, he’s crestfallen that Bailey would let a friend cut off her locks before the big day.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Prendini is the curator of the spider, scorpion, centipede and millipede collections at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, according to the museum's website.

From BBC

The museum’s website lists Prendini as the curator of its spider, scorpion, centipede and millipede collections.

From Seattle Times

The contraption was cradled on a transport mechanism that resembles several long mechanical centipedes, but with wheels, 288 in all, instead of feet.

From New York Times

Related Words

• ant
• flea
• insect
• mosquito
• rodent