Slug

Definition

A terrestrial mollusk typically lacking a shell or having a very small internal shell, known for its slimy, elongated body and slow movement.

Etymology

Likely from Middle English 'slugge,' meaning 'lazy person' or 'sluggard,' possibly related to Old Norse 'slugginn,' meaning 'heavy' or 'slow.'

Example

Slugs are often found in gardens where they feed on plants and can be pests to gardeners.

Synonyms

• Gastropod
• Land slug

Related Terms

• Snail
• Mollusk
• Gastropoda
• Shell

Usage Notes

In the context of entomology and arachnology, slugs are not insects or arachnids but are studied due to their ecological interactions with insects and plants.