1834, from Modern Latin Echinodermata, name of the phylum that includes starfish and sea urchins, from Latinized form of Greek ekhinos “sea urchin,” originally “porcupine, hedgehog” (see echidna) + derma (genitive dermatos) “skin,” from PIE root *der- “to split, flay, peel,” with derivatives referring to skin and …

Where did the name echinoderms come from?

Echinoderms are named for the spines or bumps covering the outer surface of the bodies of many of them (Greek root word echino- meaning spiny; Latin root word -derm meaning skin). Examples of echinoderms include sea stars, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, and feather stars (Fig. 3.83).

What does the word echinoderms mean?

Definition of echinoderm : any of a phylum (Echinodermata) of radially symmetrical coelomate marine animals including the starfishes, sea urchins, and related forms. Other Words from echinoderm Example Sentences Learn More About echinoderm.