1. the head or anterior end of a tapeworm, typically bearing hooks or suckers for attachment to the host
Usage: biology; parasitology

Examples

• The scolex of the tapeworm attaches firmly to the intestinal wall.
• Each scolex contains specialized structures for gripping the host tissue.
• The veterinarian identified the parasite by examining its distinctive scolex.
• A tapeworm’s scolex can regenerate the entire body if the rest is removed.
• The scolex uses its hooks and suckers to maintain its position in the digestive tract.