Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

echinoderm

Noun
/ˌɛkɪˈnɒdɜːrm/
Definition
A marine animal belonging to the phylum Echinodermata, characterized by a hard, spiny skin and radial symmetry.
Examples
  • Starfish are a well-known type of echinoderm.
  • Sea urchins, with their spiky shells, are also echinoderms.
  • Some echinoderms, like sea cucumbers, have soft bodies and can expel their internal organs as a defense mechanism.
Meaning
Echinoderms are a diverse group of sea creatures that include starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. They are known for their unique body structure and ability to regenerate lost limbs.
Synonyms
  • Spiny skinned animal
  • Radially symmetrical marine organism