Peritomous is a rarely used adjective that refers to something that is circumcised. It is spelled with the prefix "peri-" which means "around" and the root "tomous" which means "cut". The pronunciation of Peritomous is /pɛrɪtəməs/. The first syllable "per-" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, the second syllable "-it-" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, and the third syllable "-o-" is pronounced with a short "o" sound. The final syllable "-us" is pronounced with a short "uh" sound.
Peritomous is an adjective that refers to the reproductive behavior or characteristic of certain animals, especially invertebrates, where the body divides or separates into two parts during reproduction. It comes from the Greek word "peritome," which means division.
In peritomous reproduction, the body of the animal undergoes a process called fission, where it splits into two separate individuals, each with their own body structure and functionality. This division typically occurs longitudinally down the middle of the organism, resulting in two identical halves. This phenomenon is commonly observed in certain species of flatworms, sea anemones, and jellyfish.
The splitting of the body in peritomous reproduction allows each resulting individual to grow and regenerate the missing parts, eventually becoming fully functional and independent organisms. This form of reproduction is a means for the animal to increase its population quickly, as each individual is capable of producing offspring.
While peritomous reproduction is primarily observed in lower organisms, it serves as an essential biological mechanism for their survival and propagation. It allows these organisms to adapt to changes in their environment, recover from injuries, and ensure the continuity of their species.
Overall, peritomous refers to the reproductive behavior in certain animals where the body divides or separates into two parts, allowing for regeneration and growth of individual organisms.
In min., cleaving in more directions than one parallel to the axis.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "peritomous" is derived from the Greek word "periaitomia", which consists of two components: "peri", meaning "around" or "surrounding", and "aitomia", meaning "cutting". The combination of these two Greek terms forms the word "periaitomia", which refers to the surgical procedure of circumcision. Over time, the word evolved into "peritomous", an adjective that describes anything related to or associated with circumcision.