lancelet

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun lancelet has 1 sense

lancelet, amphioxus - small translucent lancet-shaped burrowing marine animal; primitive forerunner of the vertebrates
--₁ is a kind of cephalochordate
--₁ is a member of genus Amphioxus

Definitions from the Web

Lancelet

Definition: A small, slender marine chordate belonging to the subphylum Cephalochordata, characterized by a distinct fish-like appearance and an elongated body.

Part of Speech:

Noun: A lancelet refers to an organism belonging to the subphylum Cephalochordata.

Senses:

Sense 1: The lancelet (noun) is a primitive marine animal with a notochord and gill slits, similar to the earliest known vertebrates.
Sense 2: In anatomy, the term lancelet can also refer to a specific part or structure resembling a lancelet, such as a slender, elongated object.

Usage:

Sense 1:

Example sentence 1: The lancelet is considered a living fossil as it retains many characteristics of ancient chordates.

Example sentence 2: Researchers studying the evolutionary history of vertebrates often study lancelets to gain insights into their early ancestors.

Example sentence 3: The translucent body of the lancelet allows for observation of internal structures without the need for dissection.

Sense 2:

Example sentence 1: The surgeon used a lancelet-shaped instrument to make precise incisions during the procedure.

Example sentence 2: The sculpture featured a lancelet design, representing grace and agility.

Example sentence 3: The decorative lancelet on the sword's hilt added elegance to the weapon.