Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

gastropod

noun

/ˈɡæstrəˌpɒd/

Definition

A member of a large class of mollusks that includes snails and slugs, characterized by a single, usually spirally coiled shell, and a broad foot used for locomotion.

Examples

Snails are a common type of gastropod found in gardens.
The color patterns on shell of some gastropods can be quite striking and beautiful.
Many gastropods, like slugs, do not have an external shell.

Meaning

Gastropods are often recognized for their soft bodies and may have a shell or be shell-less. They are found in a variety of environments, including oceans, freshwater, and on land.