Invertebrate/ɪnˈvɜːrtɪbrət/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Biological Emphasis The term often appears in scientific contexts, biology classes, and nature documentaries. Scientists categorize sponges as simple invertebrates. Pro Tip 2/3Not Just Small While many invertebrates are tiny, the term includes large animals like squids too. The giant squid is one of the largest invertebrates in the ocean. Pro Tip 3/3Diversity Highlight Invertebrates make up the majority of animal species, showing incredible diversity. Biologists are amazed by the diverse world of invertebrates.