animalcule Meaning, Definition & Usage

An`i*mal"cule noun

Etymology

As if fr. a L. animalculum, dim. of animal.

Definitions

1. A small animal, as a fly, spider, etc. Obs. Ray.
2. (Zoöl.) An animal, invisible, or nearly so, to the naked eye. See Infusoria. ✍ Many of the so-called animalcules have been shown to be plants, having locomotive powers something like those of animals. Among these are Volvox, the Desmidiacæ, and the siliceous Diatomaceæ.