First Known Use: 1832
Dictionary
invertebrate
adjective in·ver·te·brate \(ˌ)in-ˈvər-tə-brət, -ˌbrāt\
Definition of INVERTEBRATE
1
: lacking a spinal column; also : of, relating to, or concerned with invertebrate animals
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Origin of INVERTEBRATE
New Latin invertebratus, from Latin in- + New Latin vertebratus vertebrate
Related to INVERTEBRATE
- Synonyms
- characterless, effete, frail, weak, limp-wristed, milk-and-water, namby-pamby, nerveless, soft, spineless, weakened, weak-kneed, weakling, wet [British], wimpish, wimpy, wishy-washy
Other Invertebrates (Except Insects) Terms
INVERTEBRATE Defined for Kids
1invertebrate
adjective in·ver·te·brate \in-ˈvər-tə-brət\
Definition of INVERTEBRATE for Kids
: having no backbone <an invertebrate animal>
2invertebrate
noun
Definition of INVERTEBRATE for Kids
: an animal (as a worm or a crab) that does not have a backbone
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