Dermestidae

plural noun

Der·​mes·​ti·​dae
-təˌdē
: a family of small beetles that have clubbed antennae and are very destructive both as larvae and adults to organic material of animal origin (such as dried meats, fur, wool, or insect collections)

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Dermestes, type genus + -idae

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Dermestidae

Cite this Entry

“Dermestidae.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Dermestidae. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!