An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Any of various marine coelenterates of a soft, gelatinous structure, especially one with an umbrella like body and long, trailing tentacles; medusa (dictionary.com).

Etymology (EN): → jelly; → fish.

Etymology (PE): Medusâ, from Gk. Medousa, literally “guardian,” from medein “to protect, rule over.”