DictionaryscudSmall crustacean
noun

scud

A small shrimplike crustacean.

A tiny scud swims among the plants in the pond.

Etymology

The small crustacean takes its name from scud, to move rapidly. Its quick darting movement supplies the animal nickname.

More examples

  • Small fish feed on scuds near the creek bottom.
  • Under the microscope, the scud's many legs are easy to see.
  • We found several scuds beneath a submerged stone.

Forms

scud · scuds

Similar words

amphipod
Names the broader crustacean group to which scuds belong.