Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

lancelet

noun

/ˈlæn.sɛ.let/

Definition

A small fish-like creature that belongs to the phylum Chordata and is known for its primitive characteristics.

Examples

The lancelet is often studied to understand the development of vertebrates.
In the sandy bottoms of oceans, lancelets can be found burrowing into the sediment.
Scientists observed the lancelet’s unique filtering system for feeding.

Meaning

Lancelet refers to a member of the group of marine animals that resemble fish but lack a backbone. They are important to the study of evolutionary biology because they exhibit features similar to those of early vertebrates.