1. a marine worm of the class Polychaeta, typically having a segmented body with bristles and paddle-like appendages
Usage: zoology

1. of or relating to polychaetes
Usage: zoology

Examples

• The polychaete worms are abundant in marine sediments.
• Scientists discovered a new species of polychaete in the deep ocean.
• Polychaete larvae drift in the plankton before settling on the seafloor.
• The polychaete’s bristles help it move through sand and mud.
• Many fish feed on polychaete worms found in tidal pools.
• The polychaete family includes both free-swimming and tube-dwelling species.