1. plural form of polypus or polyp; small growths projecting from a mucous membrane
Usage: medical
2. plural form of polyp; small sea animals with tentacles that often form coral reefs
Usage: biology

Examples

• The doctor found several polypi in the patient’s nasal cavity.
• Nasal polypi can cause breathing difficulties and loss of smell.
• The coral reef was formed by countless polypi over many years.
• Marine biologists study how polypi contribute to reef ecosystems.
• Some polypi in the colon may become cancerous if left untreated.
• The colorful polypi extended their tentacles to catch plankton.