Zool. [mod.L., f. L. clitell-æ, a pack-saddle.] The raised band encircling the body of earthworms towards the middle.
1839. Penny Cycl., XIV. 196/1. s.v. Lumbricus, At the season of reproduction, the clitellum … becomes … a highly important agent.
1855. Owen, Invertebr. An., XII. Between the thirtieth and fortieth segments … is … the clitellum.
1877. Huxley, Anat. Inv. Anim., v. 225. The eggs of the Earthworm are laid in chitinous cocoons or cases, which are probably secreted by the clitella.
