polypous, a.
(ˈpɒlɪpəs)
[f. L. polypus polyp, polypus + -ous; so F. polypeux (1552 in sense 2).]
1. Zool. Pertaining to, or of the nature of, a polyp; also fig. like that of a polyp (esp. in reference to its reproduction by budding, as in Hydra).
| 1748 B. Martin Eng. Dict. Introd §111 Little aware..that it [sc. the distinction of sex] was deficient in any sort of animals, as we are assured it is (by late discoveries) in all the Polypous kinds. 1862 Ruskin Unto this Last iv. 146 If that ploughshare did nothing but beget other ploughshares, in a polypous manner,..it would have lost its function of capital. 1866 Sir J. E. Tennent in Felton Anc. & Mod. Gr. II. ii. vii. 396 Extortion..insinuated itself with polypous fertility into every relation and ordinance of society. |
2. Path. Pertaining to, or of the nature of, a polypus; characterized by polypi.
| 1758 Wright in Phil. Trans. L. 597 Polypous concretions in the larger vessels. 1809 Med. Jrnl. XXI. 455 In one of these the ventricles of the heart had polypous concretions. 1862 N. Syd. Soc. Year-bk. Med. 211 An early stage of the same polypous formation. |