Chilopod

/ˈkaɪləˌpɑd/ noun

Definition

Any member of the class Chilopoda; a centipede with numerous body segments and a pair of legs on each segment.

Etymology

Greek kheilos (lip) + pous (foot); the name references the modified front legs (called maxillipeds) that look like lips near the mouth.

Kelly Says

Centipedes got their 'chilo' name because of those weird modified front legs that look like lips—it's amazing that ancient taxonomists named them based on what those legs reminded them of.

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