cephalopod
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈsɛf.ə.lə.pɒd/
KK: /ˈsɛfələˌpɒd/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a class of marine animals that includes octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish, known for their intelligence and ability to change color.
Example
The cephalopod species are known for their complex behaviors and advanced nervous systems.
Conversation
Did you know that octopuses are a type of cephalopod?
Really? I always thought they were just some kind of fish.
Nope, they actually belong to a class called Cephalopoda, which includes squids and cuttlefish too.
That's fascinating! I should read more about cephalopod species.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tentacled
marine
aquatic
Antonyms
terrestrial
land
nonmarine
noun
Definition
A type of marine animal that includes squids, octopuses, and cuttlefish, known for their large heads, tentacles, and ability to squirt ink for protection.
Example
The octopus is a fascinating cephalopod that can change its color to blend in with its surroundings.
Conversation
Did you know that a cephalopod can change its color to blend in with its surroundings?
Really? That's fascinating!
Yeah, the octopus is a great example of a clever cephalopod.
Root Explanation
Cephalopod is formed from "cephalus" (from Greek "kephalē", meaning head) and "pous" (from Greek "pous, podos", meaning foot). The word describes a class of mollusks characterized by having their feet modified into arms or tentacles around their head.
Memory Tip
Imagine a creature with its 'head' ('cephalus') and 'feet' ('pous') transformed into tentacles — that's what a cephalopod is.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.