Palpus
/ˈpæl.pəs/noun
A small appendage near the mouth of an arthropod, used mainly for sensing or handling food.
Did you know?The Latin root palpare also gave English words connected with tactile examination, preserving the idea of discovering something through delicate touch.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Latin
Latin
palpare
“To touch gently, stroke, or feel by touch.”
Classical Latin
Latin
palpus
“A touching, stroking, or tactile sensation.”
17th Century
Scientific Latin
palpus
“An appendage or feeler of an arthropod near the mouth.”
17th Century
English
palpus
“A zoological term for an arthropod’s sensory mouthpart.”
Modern English
English
palpus
“A specialized appendage used for sensing, manipulating food, or related functions in arthropods.”