scoleces

/skəˈlaɪsiːz/

Definitions

1. noun

a small, usually paired, spine-like growth on the body of certain animals, especially insects or worms, that are thought to be vestigial or rudimentary spines.

“The entomologist studied the scolices on the caterpillar’s body to understand their potential role in its development.”

Synonyms

  • bristles
  • spines

Antonyms

  • smooth
  • smoothness