polyp

noun

pol·​yp ˈpä-ləp How to pronounce polyp (audio)
1
: the sessile form of cnidarian (such as a coral or sea anemone) typically having a hollow cylindrical body closed and attached at one end and opening at the other by a central mouth surrounded by tentacles armed with nematocysts
2
: a growth projecting from a mucous membrane (as of the colon or vocal cords)
polypoid adjective

Examples of polyp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Colonoscopy: To screen for polyps, cancer, or inflammation in the colon or rectum, healthcare providers use a specialized camera on an adjustable tube (colonoscope). Mark Gurarie, Health, 2 Nov. 2024 There could be a scenario where scientists can identify a more specific immune response to a growing polyp that can be targeted with a blood test. Charlotte Hu, Vox, 4 June 2024 Other potential indications for a cholecystectomy include gallbladder cancer, a dysfunctional gallbladder, or gallbladder polyps (abnormal tissue growths). Qin Rao, Verywell Health, 16 Oct. 2024 Using minimally-invasive techniques, surgeons remove polyps or granuloma, which can correct outie belly button.10 Cryotherapy: This involves applying extreme cold to freeze the umbilical granuloma in order to remove it. Mark Gurarie, Health, 12 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for polyp 

Word History

Etymology

French polype octopus, nasal polyp, from Old French polipe, from Latin polypus, from Greek polypous, from poly- + pous foot — more at foot

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of polyp was in 1742

Cite this Entry

“Polyp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polyp. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

polyp

noun
pol·​yp ˈpäl-əp How to pronounce polyp (audio)
: an invertebrate animal (as a sea anemone or a coral) that is a coelenterate having a hollow cylinder-shaped body closed and attached at one end and opening at the other by a central mouth surrounded by tentacles armed with minute stinging organs

Medical Definition

polyp

noun
pol·​yp ˈpäl-əp How to pronounce polyp (audio)
: a projecting mass of swollen and hypertrophied or tumorous membrane (as in the nasal cavity or the intestine)

called also polypus

More from Merriam-Webster on polyp

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