Definition

A type of limb found in crustaceans, located behind the maxillae, that is used for feeding.

Example

The crab used its maxillipeds to help gather food from the ocean floor.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a maxilliped?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's actually a part of some crustaceans used for feeding.

That sounds interesting! I didn’t realize they had such unique features.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Maxilliped → It is formed from "maxilla" (from Latin, meaning jaw or jawbone) and "ped" (from Latin "pes", meaning foot). The word refers to appendages that are modified from jaws to function like feet in certain crustaceans.

Memory Tip

Think of 'maxilla' as the jaw and 'ped' as foot, which helps you remember that a maxilliped is a limb that serves a function similar to a foot, derived from jaw structures.

Visually Confused Words