Definition

Describing a type of scale that is flat and tooth-like, typically found on certain fish like sharks and rays.

Example

The shark's skin is covered in placoid scales that help reduce drag in the water.

Conversation

Did you know that sharks have placoid scales that help them swim faster?

Really? I always thought their skin looked so smooth!

Yeah, those placoid scales are actually pretty fascinating.

That's cool! I love learning new things about marine life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Placoid → It is formed from "plakos" (Greek, meaning flat or plate) and "eidos" (Greek, meaning form or shape). The word describes a type of fish scale that is flat and plate-like in shape.

Memory Tip

Imagine a flat plate ('plakos') that has a specific shape ('eidos') — this helps you remember that 'placoid' refers to flat, plate-like scales.

Visually Confused Words