scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

1

a

: any of an order (Scorpiones) of nocturnal arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip

b

Scorpion : scorpio

2

: a scourge probably studded with metal

3

: something that incites to action like the sting of an insect

… the scorpions of absolute necessity …

—Arnold Bennett

Illustration of scorpion

• scorpion 1a

Examples of scorpion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The ball, somehow, skipped past the Scorpions’ keeper and into the net. —Darren Lauber, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 Mar. 2026

There are racoons, snakes, spiders, scorpions, tarantulas and bees. —Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Mar. 2026

Adventurous diners can also try the restaurant’s infamous snake and scorpion shots, which feature tequila infused with one (or both) of the venomous creatures—don't worry, they're said to carry folkloric medicinal properties. —Latifah Al Hazza, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026

After opening the gates, players step into a brawl with a scorpion-type creature. —Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French eskorpiun, from Latin scorpion-, scorpio, from Greek skorpios

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing scorpion

• scorpion fish
• scorpion fly
• sea scorpion
• water scorpion
• whip scorpion

Kids Definition

scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of an order of invertebrates that are arachnids and that have a long jointed body and a slender tail with a poisonous stinger at the end

Medical Definition

scorpion

noun

scor·​pi·​on ˈskȯr-pē-ən 

: any of an order (Scorpiones) of arachnids that have an elongated body and a narrow segmented tail bearing a venomous stinger at the tip