PHYSALIA
Physalia, genus Physalia
(noun) Portuguese man-of-war
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Phy*sa"li*a, n. Etym: [NL., fr. Gr. (Zoöl.)
Definition: A genus of large oceanic Siphonophora which includes the
Portuguese man-of-war.
Note: It has a large air sac, or float, with a sail-like crest on its
upper side. Numerous zooids of different kinds are attached to the
under side of the float. Some of the zooids have very long tentacles;
some have a mouth and digest food; others produce gonophores. The
American species (Physalia arethusa) is brilliantly colored, the
float being pink or purple, and bright blue; the zooids blue. It is
noted for its virulent stinging powers, as well as for its beautiful
colors, graceful motions, and its ability to sail to windward.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition