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graptolite

noun
grap·​to·​lite | \ ˈgrap-tə-ˌlīt How to pronounce graptolite (audio) \

Definition of graptolite

: any of an extinct class (Graptolithina) of hemichordate colonial marine animals of the Paleozoic era with zooids contained in conical cups along a chitinous support

Examples of graptolite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 One of the most emblematic animals of the Ordovician Radiation is the now-extinct graptolite. — Annalee Newitz, Ars Technica, "If you liked the Cambrian Explosion, you’ll love the Ordovician Radiation," 21 Nov. 2017

First Known Use of graptolite

1841, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for graptolite

Greek graptos painted (from graphein to write, paint) + English -lite — more at carve

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