1. A parasitic or free-living flatworm belonging to the phylum Platyhelminthes, characterized by a flattened body and simple nervous system.
Usage: scientific/biological term; often used in medical and zoological contexts

Examples

• The platyhelminth tapeworm can infect the human intestines.
• Marine biologists study platyhelminths to understand parasitic disease transmission.
• Some platyhelminths are free-living organisms found in freshwater environments.
• The platyhelminth's flattened body allows it to move through tight spaces.
• Platyhelminths lack a circulatory system, relying instead on diffusion for nutrient transport.
• Certain platyhelminths, such as flukes, are medically significant parasites.