Definitions

1. noun

A growth or mass of tissue, especially a small mass of tissue that resembles an animal, such as a coral polyp, or a mass of cells that protrudes from the lining of a body organ or cavity, especially in the intestines.

“The doctor discovered a polyp in her patient’s colon during the examination.”

2. noun

A small, usually sessile, colonial organism that lives attached to a surface, such as a coral or a bryozoan, and is composed of many similar individuals or zooids.

“The coral polyps in the reef were home to a variety of colorful fish.”

3. noun

A small mass of jellyfish tissue, especially one that is attached to a surface.

“The lake was home to many polyps that would sting swimmers.”

4. verb

To form or cause to form a polyp, especially in the lining of a body organ or cavity.

“The treatment was designed to prevent polyps from forming in the patient’s colon.”