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Millipede Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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millipede

[ˈmɪlɪpiːd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal type

A millipede is a long-bodied arthropod belonging to the class Diplopoda. Unlike centipedes, millipedes have two pairs of legs per body segment, giving them a cylindrical shape. They are primarily detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, and are commonly found in soil or leaf litter.

Synonyms

diplopod, myriapod.

Examples of usage

  • The millipede curled up to protect itself.
  • We observed a colorful millipede on our nature walk.
  • Millipedes help recycle nutrients in the forest.
  • In the garden, a millipede can be beneficial.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Habitat

  • Millipedes are commonly found in dark and moist environments, such as under rocks, logs, or leaf litter.
  • Cities can harbor diverse millipede species that thrive in gardens and parks.
  • They prefer to stay hidden during the day and are mostly active at night.

Diet

  • Unlike many other insects, these creatures primarily consume decaying plant matter, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down organic material.
  • They help improve soil health by enhancing nutrient recycling.
  • Some species have been observed to feed on fungi as well.

Biology

  • Unlike centipedes, which are fast and predatory, millipedes are slow-moving and rely on secretions for defense.
  • Many millipedes can produce toxic chemicals to deter predators; some can even emit a foul-smelling fluid.
  • They have a unique reproductive process where males engage in elaborate courtship dances before mating.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, millipedes have been used in traditional medicine for their supposed healing properties.
  • Some indigenous communities believe they possess spiritual significance, often used in rituals.
  • Millipedes have been subjects of curiosity and fascination in poetry and literature, symbolizing resilience and adaptability.

Origin of 'millipede'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'millipede' comes from Latin, where 'milli' means 'thousand' and 'pede' means 'foot'.
  • Though their name suggests a thousand legs, most millipedes have between 34 and 400 legs.
  • The scientific class for millipedes is Diplopoda, which means 'double feet' in Greek.

The word 'millipede' derives from the Latin roots 'mille,' meaning 'thousand,' and 'pes,' meaning 'foot.' The name reflects the creature's many legs, though it is a misconception that they have a thousand; the actual number of legs varies with species, usually ranging from 30 to 400 legs. The term was coined in the 18th century as scientists began to classify various species of arthropods based on their characteristics. Millipedes are ancient creatures, with ancestors dating back over 400 million years, evolving through various environmental changes. Their unique body structure has made them a subject of interest in both ecology and evolution. The study of millipedes helps scientists understand soil health and the ecosystem's decomposition process, highlighting their ecological importance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,478, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.