polyp

noun

pol·​yp ˈpä-ləp 

1

: the sessile form of cnidarian (such as a coral or sea anemone) typically having a hollow cylindrical body closed and attached at one end and opening at the other by a central mouth surrounded by tentacles armed with nematocysts

2

: a growth projecting from a mucous membrane (as of the colon or vocal cords)

polypoid

ˈpä-lə-ˌpȯid 

adjective

Examples of polyp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Colonoscopy: To screen for polyps, cancer, or inflammation in the colon or rectum, healthcare providers use a specialized camera on an adjustable tube (colonoscope). —Mark Gurarie, Health, 2 Nov. 2024

There could be a scenario where scientists can identify a more specific immune response to a growing polyp that can be targeted with a blood test. —Charlotte Hu, Vox, 4 June 2024

Other potential indications for a cholecystectomy include gallbladder cancer, a dysfunctional gallbladder, or gallbladder polyps (abnormal tissue growths). —Qin Rao, Verywell Health, 16 Oct. 2024

Using minimally-invasive techniques, surgeons remove polyps or granuloma, which can correct outie belly button.10 Cryotherapy: This involves applying extreme cold to freeze the umbilical granuloma in order to remove it. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 12 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French polype octopus, nasal polyp, from Old French polipe, from Latin polypus, from Greek polypous, from poly- + pous foot — more at foot

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

polyp

noun

pol·​yp ˈpäl-əp 

: an invertebrate animal (as a sea anemone or a coral) that is a coelenterate having a hollow cylinder-shaped body closed and attached at one end and opening at the other by a central mouth surrounded by tentacles armed with minute stinging organs

Medical Definition

polyp

noun

pol·​yp ˈpäl-əp 

: a projecting mass of swollen and hypertrophied or tumorous membrane (as in the nasal cavity or the intestine)

called also polypus