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



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Word of the Day

22 April 2025

BRIGHT

(adjective) made smooth and bright by or as if by rubbing; reflecting a sheen or glow; “bright silver candlesticks”; “a burnished brass knocker”; “she brushed her hair until it fell in lustrous auburn waves”; “rows of shining glasses”; “shiny black patents”


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“Coffee, the favorite drink of the civilized world.” – Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States

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