Definition

A type of long, flat creature with many segments, each having a pair of legs. These animals are known for being predators and can have venomous bites.

Example

I saw a centipede crawling across the floor in the dark.

Conversation

Did you see that huge centipede in the garden yesterday?

Yeah, it was really creepy!

I can't believe how fast it was moving.

I know, right? I prefer to keep my distance from those creatures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Centipede → It is formed from "centi-" (from Latin "centum", meaning one hundred) and "pedis" (from Latin, meaning foot). The word "centipede" literally means "one hundred feet," referring to the many legs of this creature, although they do not actually have one hundred legs.

Memory Tip

Imagine a creature with 'one hundred' ('centi-') 'feet' ('pedis') — that's why a centipede is known for having many legs.

Visually Confused Words