Priapulida
/ˌpraɪ.əˈpjuː.lɪ.də/noun
A phylum of marine worms known as priapulids, often called penis worms.
Did you know?The name Priapulida comes from Priapus, the Greek god of fertility and gardens, whose exaggerated phallus made him a symbol of obscene abundance in antiquity.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Πρίαπος (Priapos)
“A fertility god associated with an exaggerated phallus and protective garden imagery.”
Modern Latin
Latin
Priapulus
“A diminutive form meaning “little Priapus,” used in zoological naming.”
19th Century
New Latin
Priapulida
“A zoological group name formed for a class of worms resembling Priapus in shape.”
Modern English
English
Priapulida
“The scientific name of a phylum of unsegmented marine worms.”