palpus

[ pal-puhs ]

noun

, plural pal·pi [pal, -pahy].

1. an appendage attached to an oral part and serving as an organ of sense in insects, crustaceans, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of palpus¹

1805–15; < New Latin, special use of Latin palpus a stroking, caress, palm of the hand; akin to feel

Example Sentences

When you touch him, he draws up slowly one leg after another, or moves a palpus feebly.

From Project Gutenberg

It may be distinguished by the fact that the middle joint of each palpus is of uniform size from end to end instead of tapering toward its outer end.

From Project Gutenberg

This species may be known from Harris's Checker-spot by the fact that the middle joint of each palpus tapers from the middle to the tip and that the tibia of each front leg in the male is slender rather than stout.

From Project Gutenberg

Terminal joint of each palpus less than a third as long as the middle joint.

From Project Gutenberg

Each short palpus has a large middle joint and a small joint at the tip.

From Project Gutenberg