A class of
Vertebrata, lower than fishes, characterized by their purselike gill cavities, cartilaginous skeletons, absence of limbs, and a suckerlike mouth destitute of jaws. It includes the lampreys and hagfishes. See
Cyclostoma, and
Lamprey. Called also
Marsipobranchiata, and
Marsipobranchii. [
1913 Webster]