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invertebrate

Invertebrate (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ɪnˈvəːtɪbrət/

What does invertebrate mean?

An animal that does not have a backbone or spinal column.
"An octopus is a remarkable marine invertebrate."

Detailed Meaning of Invertebrate

This is in contrast to vertebrates, which do have a backbone. Invertebrates make up the vast majority of animal species on Earth, and they can be found in nearly every habitat, from the deepest oceans to the highest mountains. They include a wide variety of animals such as insects, spiders, crustaceans, mollusks, and worms, as well as many others that do not fit easily into these categories. Invertebrates have a wide range of body shapes and sizes, from tiny microorganisms to giant squids. They also have a wide range of feeding and reproductive strategies. Some are solitary creatures, while others live in large colonies or hives. In general, invertebrates are a diverse and abundant group of animals that play a vital role in many ecosystems, from pollinating plants to breaking down dead organic matter.

Example Sentences for Invertebrate

1. An invertebrate is an animal lacking a backbone.
2. Invertebrate species include insects, worms, and mollusks.
3. The study of invertebrate biology is fascinating.
4. Invertebrate diversity is astounding in coral reefs.
5. The world of invertebrate zoology is full of wonders.
6. The lack of a spine is a defining trait of an invertebrate.

Origin and Etymology of Invertebrate

The noun 'invertebrate' traces its origins to Latin and the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' or 'without,' and 'vertebra,' which means 'joint' or 'backbone.' In Latin, 'invertebratus' referred to animals lacking a backbone or spinal column. Over time, this term was incorporated into English as 'invertebrate' to describe animals such as insects, mollusks, and worms that do not possess the characteristic vertebral column found in vertebrate animals like mammals, birds, and reptiles. This etymology underscores the absence of a backbone as the defining feature of these diverse and numerous animal species.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun invertebrate:

bony

with spine

vertebrate

spineless

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Invertebrate

1. A jellyfish is a well-known example of an invertebrate.
2. Invertebrate physiology is a complex field of study.
3. Many invertebrate species are crucial to ecosystems.
4. Crustaceans are a diverse group of invertebrates.
5. Invertebrate behavior can be intricate and fascinating.
6. A garden is home to various invertebrate organisms.
7. Invertebrate adaptations are remarkable.
8. Invertebrate anatomy varies widely among species.
9. The classification of an organism as an invertebrate is based on its structural features.
10. The world's oceans are teeming with invertebrate life.
11. Invertebrate fossils provide insights into ancient ecosystems.
12. Spiders are one of the most well-known arachnid invertebrates.
13. Invertebrate evolution spans millions of years.
14. A microscope is a valuable tool for studying tiny invertebrate organisms.
15. Invertebrate species contribute to nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
16. Invertebrate conservation is essential for maintaining biodiversity.