Dictionary
limpet
noun lim·pet \ˈlim-pət\
: a type of ocean animal that has a shell and that is able to attach itself to things (such as rocks) very tightly
Full Definition of LIMPET
1
: a marine gastropod mollusk (especially families Acmaeidae and Patellidae) that has a low conical shell broadly open beneath, browses over rocks or timbers in the littoral area, and clings very tightly when disturbed
2
: one that clings tenaciously to someone or something
3
: an explosive device designed to cling magnetically to a metallic surface (as the hull of a ship)
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Illustration of LIMPET
Origin of LIMPET
Middle English lempet, from Old English lempedu, from Medieval Latin lampreda lamprey
First Known Use: before 12th century
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