Definition

A type of small, many-legged creature that has a long, segmented body and is usually found in damp environments. They are not harmful and often feed on decaying plant material.

Example

We found a millipede crawling on the forest floor after the rain.

Conversation

Did you see that millipede in the garden yesterday?

Yeah, I noticed it! They always look so interesting.

I find it amazing how many legs a millipede has.

Right? It's like they have their own little parade going on!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Millipede → It is formed from "mille" (from Latin, meaning thousand) and "pedis" (from Latin, meaning foot). The word "millipede" literally means a creature with a thousand feet, although it typically has far fewer than that.

Memory Tip

Imagine a creature with 'a thousand' ('mille') 'feet' ('pedis') — that's why a millipede is thought of as having many feet.

Visually Confused Words