An elongated, often segmented appendage usually found near the mouth in invertebrate organisms such as mollusks, crustaceans, and insects, the functions of which include sensation, locomotion, and feeding. Also called palpus
[ 'palp ] (noun.) 1842. For verb: From French palper Latin palpare, palpari (“to stroke, touch softly, feel”). For noun: From New Latin palpus (“a feeler”) Latin palpare (“to stroke, touch softly, feel”).