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metazoan

/mɛtəˈzoʊən/ noun · British & US
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What does metazoan mean?

The term 'metazoan' refers to a group of multicellular animals that are characterized by their complex body structures. These animals are found in a wide range of environments and include humans, animals, and some types of fungi. The term is often used in biology and zoology to refer to this group of animals. It is a formal term and is not typically used in everyday conversation. Metazoans have evolved complex body structures and are capable of a wide range of behaviors. They are found in a variety of environments, including oceans, forests, and deserts. The study of metazoans is an important area of research in biology and zoology, and has led to a greater understanding of the evolution and diversity of life on Earth. Overall, the term 'metazoan' is a useful and interesting word that is used to describe a group of complex and diverse animals.

noun

A multicellular animal, typically an animal that is not a protozoan.

Senses
  1. A multicellular animal, typically an animal that is not a protozoan.
Example

"Metazoans have complex body structures and are found in a wide range of environments."

More examples

"Metazoans have complex body structures and are found in a wide range of environments."

"Examples of metazoans include humans, animals, and some types of fungi."

Plural metazoans

The plural form 'metazoans' is used to refer to multiple multicellular animals.

Example

"Examples of metazoans include humans, animals, and some types of fungi."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymology of metazoan

The term 'metazoan' comes from the Greek words 'meta' meaning 'beyond' and 'zoon' meaning 'animal'. It was first used in the 19th century to describe multicellular animals that were not protozoans. The term has since been widely adopted in biology and zoology to refer to this group of animals.

How metazoan is actually used

The term 'metazoan' is often used in biology and zoology to refer to multicellular animals. It is a formal term and is not typically used in everyday conversation.

What's another word for metazoan?

What's the opposite of metazoan?

Rhymes with metazoan