Due to the large quantity of fossils, it has acquired a common name, that being "wye" or "y-animal" in reference to its shape.

While being covered in cnidocytes and therefore a cnidarian affinity was proposed, this theory is unlikely due to an apparent anal slit on one side of the trunk showing that the organism was likely bilateral and had a "through-gut".

[1] While Escumasia does bear similarities with various cnidarians such as sea anemones, the presence of an anus and therefore a complete gut, alongside bilateral symmetry, makes this relationship problematic.

While it shares many similarities with "coelenterates", its bilateral symmetry and through-gut suggest otherwise, and therefore it is currently classified as Animalia incertae sedis.

The scientific name Escumasia roryi honours E. Scumas Rory, printer laureate of Illinois paleontology.