coleoptera

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noun plural co·le·op·tera \ˌkō-lē-ˈäp-tə-rə\

Definition of COLEOPTERA

:  insects that are beetles

— co·le·op·ter·ist \-tə-rist\ noun

— co·le·op·ter·ous \-tə-rəs\ adjective

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Origin of COLEOPTERA

New Latin, ultimately from Greek koleon sheath + pteron wing — more at feather

First Known Use: 1771

coleoptera

noun plural co·le·op·te·ra \ˌkō-lē-ˈäp-tə-rə\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of COLEOPTERA

1

capitalized :  the largest order of insects comprising the beetles and weevils and being distinguished by a pair of forewings that are usually hard and rigid, are never used for flight, and serve as a protective covering for the delicate flight wings and the upper surface of the abdomen

2

:  insects that are beetles

—co·le·op·te·ran \-rən\ noun or adjective

—co·le·op·te·rist \-rəst\ noun

—co·le·op·te·rous \-rəs\ adjective